FDNYFDNY MEDALMEDAL DAY DAY 20112011

Honoring the Courage, Commitment and Compassion of FDNY Fire & EMS Members — June 8, 2011 — MEDAL DAY 2011 Publication of this 2011 edition of the FDNY Medal Day Book was Salvatore J. Cassano made possible by several grants. The FDNY gratefully acknowledges the Fire Commissioner generosity of the following contributors: Edward S. Kilduff Chief of Department The FDNY Honorary Fire Officers Association Jack Lerch, President Francis X. Gribbon Deputy Commissioner Office of Public Information Dorothy Marks Honorary Fire Commissioner

The FDNY Foundation Stephen L. Ruzow, Chairman Jean O’Shea, Executive Director MEDAL DAY STAFF

PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Stephen Paul Antonelli

EDITOR Janet Kimmerly GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Thomas Ittycheria WRITERS Lieutenant Peter W. Blaich FDNY Battalion Chief Christopher Boyle EMS Captain Martin J. Braun Proudly Serving Since 1865 Assistant Chief Edward C. Butler (retired) Lieutenant Michael Doda Lieutenant Christopher Flatley Captain John Flynn (retired) Barry D. Gintel Victoria Giordano Firefighter Nick Graziano David Joseph Harney Firefighter Stephen Interdonati Firefighter Ralph Longo Assistant Chief Fire Marshal John David Lynn Captain Stephen Marsar Battalion Chief Frank Montagna Photo Credits Captain Sean Newman Lieutenant Anthony Pascocello Cover EMS Lieutenant Joseph Pataky Manhattan Box 77-0259, 283 Grand Street/Forsyth, April 11, 2010, the incident for which EMS Captain Oleg Patrikeyev FF Antonio Montesino, Squad 18, is awarded the Walter Scott Medal. photo by Allen Epstein EMS Lieutenant Michelle L. Robbins EMS Division Chief Rosario Terranova Opposite Firefighter Jack Thompson (retired) Queens Box 8912, Sutter Avenue/142nd Street, January 16, 2011. Captain John T. Vigiano (retired) photo by FF Michael Gomez, Squad 288 Captain Thomas Woods Back Cover MEDAL DESK EMS Ground Transport Incident (10-32), bus accident with nine injuries, Genesee Firefighter Robert Hart Avenue/Abingdon Avenue, Staten Island, October 25, 2010. A bus transporting handicapped EMT Jeanette Perez adults collided with an SUV and sent the bus hurtling into a telephone pole. Firefighters removed EMT Edgar Pitre the victims on backboards and assisted Paramedics with triage on the street. DIRECTOR OF photo by Staten Island Dispatcher Steve White (retired) SPECIAL PROJECTS & EVENTS Lenore Koehler PHOTOS BY FDNY PHOTO UNIT Supervising Fire Marshal Ralph Bernard Randy Barron, Kristin Eng, David Warren Special thanks to Chief Fire Marshal Robert Byrnes and his staff for their assistance. M E D A L D A Y 2 0 1 1

MEDAL BOARD Fire EMS Robert F. Sweeney Salvatore J. Cassano Jerry Z. Gombo Chief of Operations Commissioner Assistant Chief of Ronald R. Spadafora Edward S. Kilduff EMS Operations Chief of Logistics Chief of Department Robert A. Hannafey Chief EMS Division 3 Index of Medals Index of Medal Recipients James Gordon Bennett Medal/NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Barbaria, EMT Kyle R.; Rodriguez, EMT Edward (Christopher J. Prescott Medal) ...... 13 Association Medal ...... 11 Benac, FF Shane C. (Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal) ...... 43 Brooklyn Citizens Medal/FF Louis Valentino Award....12 Bland, FF Matthew R. (Albert S. Johnston Medal) ...... 27 Burgos, FF Shaun A. (Vincent J. Kane Medal) ...... 29 Christopher J. Prescott Medal ...... 13 Cavalieri, FF Anthony R. (Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal) ...... 31 Hugh Bonner Medal ...... 14 Chaimowitz, FF Anthony E. (Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal) ...... 23 Honor Legion Medal ...... 14 Corrales, EMS Lieutenant Luis F. (Chief James Scullion Medal) ...... 35 Emily Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal ...... 15 Croak, Lieutenant William R. (William F. Conran Medal) ...... 22 Thomas E. Crimmins Medal ...... 16 Cuccio, FF Robert (John H. Prentice Medal) ...... 19 Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal...... 17 Cunningham, FF Stephen J. (Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal) ...... 52 Walter Scott Medal...... 18 Demontreux, FF Peter G. (James Gordon Bennett Medal/NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal) ...... 11 John H. Prentice Medal ...... 19 Diaz, FF Robert A. (Thomas E. Crimmins Medal) ...... 16 Henry D. Brookman Medal...... 20 Dodenhoff, FF Charles J. (Brooklyn Citizens Medal/FF Louis Valentino Award) ...... 12 M.J. Delehanty Medal ...... 21 Engine Company 54/Ladder Company 4--(Engine Company 54: Barvels, Lieutenant Michael B.; William F. Conran Medal ...... 22 Fischetti (L-4), FF Paul J.; Hughes (L-4), FF Stephen J.; Martinez, FF Federico; Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal ...... 23 Pettenato, FF Nicholas M.; Ryan, FF Colin C.) (Ladder Company 4: Kazan, Lieutenant John V.; Tracy Allen-Lee Medal...... 24 Cashion (E-54), FF Timothy R.; Hickey, FF Scott A.; Leahy, FF William J.; Loveridge, FF Brian J.; Young, FF George T.) (World Trade Center Memorial Medal) ...... 54 Chief John J. McElligott Medal/ Engine Company 63: Flaherty (Bn-15), Lieutenant John M.; Adams, Jr., FF Jonas G.; Cuozzo, FF FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award...... 25 Anthony M.; Marino, FF Philip; Painter, FF Robert W. (Lieutenant James Curran/New York Thomas F. Dougherty Medal...... 26 Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal) ...... 48 Albert S. Johnston Medal ...... 27 Flynn, FF Brian M. (Police Honor Legion Medal) ...... 45 Bella Stiefel Medal ...... 28 Gonzalez, Lieutenant Edward J. (Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal) ...... 17 Hansen, FF Gregory (Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal) ...... 41 Vincent J. Kane Medal ...... 29 Hayes, Lieutenant Kevin P. (Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal) ...... 36 Pulaski Association Medal ...... 30 Howard, EMT Eric J.; Martin, EMT Keith G. (Jack Pintchik Medal) ...... 53 Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal...... 31 Insardi, FF Daniel G. (Company Officers Association Medal) ...... 42 Columbia Association Medal ...... 32 Kelly, Lieutenant James P. (Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal) ...... 37 Susan Wagner Medal...... 33 Kilduff, Captain Kieran M. (Thomas F. Dougherty Medal) ...... 26 Steuben Association Medal ...... 34 Krebs, Fire Marshal Brian M. (Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal) ...... 50 Chief James Scullion Medal...... 35 Ladder Company 174: Bayer, Jr., Lieutenant Raymond J.; Cavanagh, FF Gerard F.; Donohue, FF Daniel P.; Dowdell, FF James M.; O’Sullivan, FF John J.; Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal...... 36 Sommeso, FF Jon Mich (Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal) ...... 49 Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal...... 37 Lomask, FF Joshua M. (Lieutenant James E. Zahn/ Edith B. Goldman Medal...... 38 Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal) ...... 47 American Legion Fire Department Post 930/ Lopez, FF Matthew R. (Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal) ...... 40 Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Medal ...... 39 Marchese, FF Nicholas S. (American Legion Fire Dept. Post 930/Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal...... 40 Medal) ...... 39 Mastandrea, Captain Charles A. (Columbia Association Medal) ...... 32 Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal ...... 41 Mazzetti, FF Dante R. (Emily Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal) ...... 15 Company Officers Association Medal...... 42 McGrath, Paramedic Sean M.; O’Neil, Paramedic Patrick M.; Creeden, EMT Patrick M. Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal...... 43 (Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal) ...... 44 Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal...... 44 McNiff, Lieutenant Patrick E. (Susan Wagner Medal) ...... 33 Police Honor Legion Medal...... 45 McNulty, FF James G. (M.J. Delehanty Medal) ...... 21 Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal...... 46 Mendonca, EMT Dewey A.; Smythe, EMT Garfield A. (Tracy Allen-Lee Medal) ...... 24 Lieutenant James E. Zahn/Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Minichiello, FF Christopher J. (William Friedberg Medal) ...... 51 Memorial Medal...... 47 Mitchell, FF Brian T. (Chief John J. McElligott Medal/FFs Fitzpatrick Lieutenant James Curran/New York Firefighters and Frisby Award) ...... 25 Montesino, FF Antonio (Walter Scott Medal) ...... 18 Burn Center Foundation Medal...... 48 Moore, FF Robert J. (Edith B. Goldman Medal) ...... 38 Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal...... 49 Nielsen, FF Christian S. (Steuben Association Medal) ...... 34 Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal...... 50 O’Keefe, FF Brian K. (Bella Stiefel Medal) ...... 28 William Friedberg Medal...... 51 Roesch, Jr., FF William L. (Henry D. Brookman Medal) ...... 20 Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal ...... 52 Rogers, Captain James F. (Pulaski Association Medal) ...... 30 Jack Pintchik Medal ...... 53 Schickler, FF Christopher T. (Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal) ...... 46 World Trade Center Memorial Medal ...... 54 Troche, FF Steven V. (Hugh Bonner Medal/Honor Legion Medal) ...... 14

2 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Michael R. Bloomberg Mayor It is a great pleasure to welcome everyone to the New York City Fire Department’s Medal Day 2011. Our City is proud to be the home of the greatest Fire Department in the world. During the past few years, we have had fewer fires than at any time in decades, thanks to Fire Prevention programs and comprehensive building inspections. Response times by our Fire and EMS units are among the fastest ever and more of our residents are learning about fire safety and taking steps to protect themselves and their families. New York’s Bravest are superbly equipped to respond to crises of any kind and, today, we take this opportunity to celebrate their amazing skill and express our gratitude for their courage in putting everything on the line to keep our City safe.

On behalf of all New Yorkers, I am honored to join you in applauding this year’s medal recipients--Firefighter Peter G. Demontreux, EMT Kyle R. Barbaria, EMT Edward Rodriguez, Engine Company 63, Ladder Company 174, Engine Company 54 and Ladder Company 4, to name just a few of the many and deserving honorees.

Please accept my best wishes for a wonderful ceremony.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 3 Salvatore J. Cassano Fire Commissioner his year marks the tenth anniversary of the September 11th attacks. And while that gives us reason to reflect and remember, it is also an occasion to be proud of all that we have accomplished in the memory of the 343 members who Twere lost that day. Medal Day is a great example of our endurance and strength, a decade after experiencing such devastating loss. As always, this year we will honor those members whose actions in the line of duty--putting their lives on the line to protect oth- ers--merit special recognition. Some of the highlights from this year’s Medal Day include:

• James Gordon Bennett Medal recipient, Firefighter Peter G. Demontreux, Ladder Company 132. Both the victim and FF Demontreux became engulfed in flames during this dramatic rescue.

• Christopher J. Prescott Medal recipients, EMT Kyle R. Barbaria, Station 26, and EMT Edward Rodriguez, Station 20. They assisted an NYPD officer regain his weapon from an unstable patient within the confines of a hospital emergency room.

• Lieutenant James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal recipients, Engine Company 63, and Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal recipients, Ladder Company 174. Engine 63 members battled a gas- fueled fire that was set intentionally. Ladder 174 members rescued several civilians, while fighting heavy fire and thick smoke.

• World Trade Center Memorial Medal recipients, Engine Company 54 and Ladder Company 4. The members of these two companies performed in textbook fashion to negate a terrorist’s vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) in the middle of Times Square, Manhattan.

Our members perform acts of bravery and compassion--small and large--every day. Furthermore, their actions are for the public good, not for personal acclaim. For this, they all deserve recognition and thanks. So I congratulate this year’s recipi- ents and I applaud all of our uniformed members for another exemplary year.

4 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Edward S. Kilduff Chief of Department

t is a tremendous honor for FDNY to host Medal Day 2011 on the prestigious aircraft carrier, USS Intrepid. This event could not be held in a more fitting venue. According to the dictionary, intrepid is defined as marked by res- Iolute courage; fearless and bold. Certainly, this definition is appropriate for all of our Medal Day honorees, who will be recognized today. With recent events such as the demise of Osama bin Laden, as well as the approach of the 10th anniversary of the World Trade Center attacks, the natural bond between the brave members of the FDNY and our extraordinary men and women in the armed forces is one that is time-honored and celebrated. At this year’s FDNY Foundation Dinner in April, the Department recognized the 304 members who have served since September 11th in Operation Enduring Freedom and/or Operation Iraqi Freedom.

When President Obama visited the quarters of Engine 54/Ladder 4/Battalion 9, he said, Although 9/11 obvious- ly was the high-water mark of courage for the New York Fire Department and a symbol of sacrifice, you are making sacrifices every day. There is no greater expression of support or honor for what our members accomplish each day.

As you enjoy this great event today, I’d like to point out that we are only a few hundred feet south of Pier 94, which housed the massive family assistance program for every family that lost loved ones on September 11th. Our members were instrumental in establishing and staffing Pier 94, where families could receive assistance in medical, legal and counseling services. The commitment of the Department to the September 11th families remains as strong now as it was in the months after the attack on the WTC.

Today, instead of focusing on any one job, rescue, medical incident or Medal Day winner, I want to salute our military for keeping us safe and defending our country and its interests within our homeland and overseas. And, I applaud all of our FDNY members--Fire and EMS--for always answering the call to protect New York City residents and visitors.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 5 FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER

DANIEL SHACKNAI

DEPUTY COMMISSIONERS

JOHN A. BENANTI FRANCIS X. GRIBBON DOUGLAS WHITE Technology & Public Information Administration Support Services

ASSOCIATE COMMISSIONERS CAROLINE KRETZ MICHAEL VECCHI Intergovernmental Affairs Management Initiatives ASSISTANT COMMISSIONERS JAMES BASILE KAY ELLIS MICHELE J. MAGLIONE JOSEPH MASTROPIETRO LYNDELLE T. PHILLIPS Fleet/Technical Services Fleet Services Recruitment & Diversity Facilities Equal Employment Opportunity

DONAY J. QUEENAN STEPHEN G. RUSH SUZANNE SEBERT DONALD STANTON ROBERT WALLACE Human Resources Budget and Finance Family Assistance Technology Investigations and Trials Development & Systems

BUREAU OF SPECIAL ADVISOR EMS OFFICE OF HEALTH SERVICES FOR HEALTH POLICY MEDICAL AFFAIRS FDNY CHAPLAINS Monsignor John Delendick

Monsignor Marc Filacchione

Reverend Stephen Harding

Father Joseph Hoffman

Father Christopher Keenan

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik Dr. Kerry Kelly Dr. David J. Prezant Dr. John Freese CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR

6 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 FDNY STAFF CHIEFS

Robert F. Sweeney Thomas R. Galvin Thomas M. Jensen Chief of Operations Chief of Training Chief of Fire Prevention

James J. Manahan, Jr. Joseph W. Pfeifer Richard S. Tobin Ronald R. Spadafora Edward J. Baggott Assistant Chief Assistant Chief, Assistant Chief Assistant Chief, Deputy Assistant Chief, of Operations Counterterrorism & of Fire Prevention Chief of Logistics Bureau of Operations Emergency Preparedness

William C. Seelig Joseph M. Woznica Robert Maynes Robert J. Boyce, Jr. Stephen A. Raynis Deputy Assistant Chief, Deputy Assistant Chief Deputy Assistant Chief, Deputy Assistant Chief, Deputy Assistant Chief, Chief of Fire Prevention Chief of Planning Chief of Communications Chief of Safety and Inspection Special Operations Command Services Command

John Mooney Robert G. Byrnes J. David Lynn Michael F. Gala, Jr. Deputy Assistant Chief, Chief Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Battalion Chief, Training Fire Marshal Chief of Personnel

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 7 FDNY STAFF CHIEFS BOROUGH COMMANDERS

Kevin M. Butler James E. Leonard James E. Esposito John Sudnik Michael F. Marrone Deputy Assistant Chief Deputy Assistant Chief Assistant Chief Deputy Assistant Chief Deputy Assistant Chief Bronx Brooklyn Manhattan Queens Staten Island

SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND

Battalion Chief Battalion Chief Deputy Chief Stephen J. Geraghty James C. Dalton Nicholas Del Re Rescue Operations Marine Operations Haz-Mat Operations DIVISION COMMANDERS

Deputy Chief Deputy Chief Deputy Chief Deputy Chief Deputy Chief James D. Daly, Jr. Thomas E. McKavanagh Raymond M. Stanton James F. Mulrenan Richard J. Howe Division 1 Division 3 Division 6 Division 7 Division 8

Deputy Chief Deputy Chief Deputy Chief Deputy Chief James E. Campbell James A. DiDomenico Mark A. Ferran Wayne Cartwright Division 11 Division 13 Division 14 Division 15

8 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE COMMAND

Abdo Nahmod Jerry Z. Gombo John J. Peruggia Chief Assistant Chief Assistant Chief Bureau of EMS EMS Operations EMS Operations

CHIEF OFFICERS

Michael J. Fitton Ann M. Fitton Fredrick V. Villani Deputy Assistant Chief Division Chief Division Chief Emergency Medical Dispatch BOT--EMS Division Planning & Strategy

Frances M. Pascale James P. Booth Robert A. Hannafey Marylou Aurrichio Albert T. Gehres, Jr. Chief EMS Division 1 Chief EMS Division 2 Chief EMS Division 3 Chief EMS Division 4 Chief EMS Division 5

Janice Olszewski Rosario Terranova Division Chief Division Chief EMS Operations EMS Operations

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 9 THE JAMES GORDON BENNETT MEDAL WINNERS

The James Gordon Bennett Medal was established in 1869 and, for years, it was the sole decoration awarded for valor in the Fire Department of the City of New York. As a result of its seniority among medals, it is awarded annually for the most outstanding act of heroism after the consideration and deliberate judgment of the members of the Medal Board of the NYC Fire Department.

1869--Lieutenant Minthorne D. Tompkins (L-l) 1914--Firefighter John F. Mooney (1) (L-4) 1963--Firefighter Lawrence F. Duenas (E-59) Captain Benjamin A. Gicquel (E-9) 1915--Captain Thomas W. Smith (E-2) 1964--Firefighter David Crowley (L-14) 1870--Lieutenant Charles L. Kelly (E-9) 1916--Firefighter James T. Daniels (L-26) 1965--Firefighter James E. Bowler (R-2) 1871--Firefighter Ambrose L. Austin (E-15) 1917--Firefighter John Walsh (1) (L-1) 1966--Firefighter Robert E. Farrell (L-31) 1872--Lieutenant Thomas Henry (L-6) 1918--Firefighter Patrick R. O’Connor (L-14) 1967--Firefighter Thomas D. Ferraiuolo (L-28) Firefighter Thomas Hutchinson (L-1) 1919--Lieutenant Francis Blessing (R-1) 1968--Firefighter Gene P. Dowling (L-25) 1873--Battalion Chief William H. Nash (Bn-7) 1920--Firefighter Timothy F. O’Leary, Jr. (E-15) 1969--Firefighter James N. Tempro (E-217) Firefighter Alfred Conner (L-10) 1921--Firefighter Frank J. Costello (L-12) 1970--Firefighter Charles Varner (L-55) Lieutenant Henry Schuck (E-34) 1922--Firefighter Jacob F. Ferber (E-239) 1971--Lieutenant Richard R. Hamilton (R-2) 1874--Captain William Mitchell (E-10) 1923--Captain Edwin A.A. Quinn (E-14) 1972--Firefighter Steven C. DeRosa (L-102) 1875--Lieutenant James Horn (E-11) 1924--Hon. Medical Off. Harry M. Archer, MD 1973--Firefighter Raymond G. McCann (L-40) 1876--Firefighter Joseph McGowan (E-6) 1925--Captain Thomas J. O’Toole (E-27) 1974--Firefighter Gilbert J. Murtha (L-108) 1877--Firefighter Thomas J. Dougherty (L-1) 1926--Firefighter William G.R. Mitchell (E-18) 1975--Firefighter Thomas J. Neary (L-31) 1878--Captain Daniel J. Meagher (L-3) 1927--Firefighter Michael McInerney (L-12) 1976--Firefighter Martin McGovern (L-114) 1879--Firefighter Paul Bauer (L-4) 1928--Captain James A. Walsh (1) (E-234) 1977--Captain Frederick W. Gallagher (R-2) 1880--Firefighter John Levins (L-2) 1929--Firefighter George W. Reilly (L-19) 1978--Firefighter James H. Battillo (L-152) 1881--Firefighter Michael Connerford (E-12) 1930--Firefighter Edward V. Conroy (L-l) 1979--Firefighter John J. Pritchard (R-2) 1882--Firefighter John L. Rooney (L-10) 1931--Captain Albert B. Carlson (E-66) 1980--Lieutenant Thomas J. Neary (L-28) 1883--Firefighter William B. Kirchner (E-11) 1932--Firefighter Vincent J. Hyde (R-3) 1981--Lieutenant Howard R. Kennedy (L-154) 1884--Firefighter John Binns (E-32) 1933--Captain Cornell M. Garety (R-l) 1982--Firefighter Joseph H. Dirks (L-103) 1885--Captain Peter H. Short (L-l) 1934--Firefighter Rudolph F. Musil (L-12) 1983--Firefighter Kenneth L. Connelly (L-111) 1886--Firefighter Michael Brady (E-34) 1935--Firefighter George J. Wolken (E-60) 1984--Firefighter Robert Merkel (L-42) 1887--Lieutenant Samuel Banta (L-10) 1936--Firefighter Joseph E. Smith (2) (E-211) 1985--Firefighter James A. Sollami (E-62) 1888--Lieutenant William Quirk (E-22) 1937--Firefighter James P. Nevin (E-201) 1986--Captain James F. McDonnell (L-42) 1889--Firefighter William Reilly (L-12) 1938--Firefighter Charles G. Roscher (L-1) 1987--Lieutenant William F. Maloney (L-34) 1890--Captain Thomas J. Ahern (E-5) 1939--Firefighter Daniel J. Sullivan (L-3) 1988--Firefighter John J. McDonnell (L-28) 1891--Firefighter Patrick F. Lucas (E-30) 1940--Firefighter Charles A. Merz (L-168) 1989--Captain Richard Jacquin (L-59) 1892--Firefighter Patrick H. Aspell (L-4) 1941--Firefighter Thomas F. Brennan (L-111) 1990--Lieutenant Gerard M. Murtha (R-3) 1893--Firefighter John Walker (L-6) 1942--Captain John W. Heaney (Hdq.) 1991--Firefighter William E. Jutt (L-22) 1894--Firefighter Denis Ryer (L-15) 1943--Firefighter John Colgan (L-2) 1992--Firefighter Michael M. Dugan (L-43) 1895--Firefighter William H. Behler (E-35) 1944--Firefighter Harvey W. Crook (R-3) 1993--Firefighter Albert J. Gonzalez, Jr. (L-18) 1896--Firefighter Martin M. Coleman (L-3) 1945--Captain George H. Winter (L-3) 1994--Lieutenant John M. Fox (SQ-1) 1898--Firefighter James Pearl (L-7) 1946--Firefighter Arthur L. Speyer (L-24) 1995--Firefighter Gregory J. Smith, Jr. (L-108) 1899--Firefighter John Hughes (1) (L-14) 1947--Firefighter Anthony J. Riccardi (L-26) 1996--Firefighter Gerard J. Triglia (L-132) 1900--Firefighter William Clark (L-14) 1948--Captain Patrick T. Green (R-1) 1997--Firefighter John K. Duddy (L-28) 1901--Firefighter Thomas J. McArthur (E-29) 1949--Firefighter James S. Norton (L-163) 1998--Firefighter Stan J. Sussina (R-1) 1902--Firefighter Richard Nitsch (E-35) 1950--Firefighter Wilbur J. O’Donnell (L-111) 1999--Captain John J. Pritchard (E-255) 1903--Firefighter Charles F. Douth (L-3) 1951--Firefighter Victor F. Rossi (L-120) 2000--Firefighter Stephen P. Fenley (L-78) 1904--Firefighter James R. McAvoy (L-4) 1952--Lieutenant John F. McGlynn (L-10) 2001--Firefighter John F. South (L-44) 1905--Firefighter Michael J. Stevens (L-4) 1953--Firefighter Angelo Michelini (E-97) 2003--Battalion Chief James Marketti (Bn-48) 1906--Firefighter Cassimer C. Wodzicki (E-17) 1954--Deputy Chief John T. Oakley (2) (Hdq.) 2004--Firefighter James F. Mills (L-176) 1907--Firefighter Michael Nicklaus (L-4) 1955--Firefighter Bernard F. Curran (E-92) 2005--Firefighter Victor J. Rosa, Jr. (L-138) 1908--Firefighter John T. Oakley (L-11) 1956--Firefighter Michael J. O’Driscoll (L-28) 2006--Captain Christopher J. Joyce (E-318) 1909--Battalion Chief George L. Ross (Bn-7) 1957--Firefighter William Von Diezelski (L-4) 2007--Firefighter James T. Byrne (L-121) 1910--Firefighter John R. Harcke (L-12) 1958--Firefighter Nicholas Sharko (L-11) 2008--Lieutenant James F. Congema (Bn-19) Firefighter Frank C. Clarke (L-24) 1959--Captain Arthur J. O’Connor (SQ-4) 2009--Firefighter Anthony M. Romano (L-142) 1911--Firefighter Richard J. Condon (2) (E-12) 1960--Firefighter William V. Russo (E-254) 2010--Firefighter Michael A. Czech, Jr. (L-142) 1912--Firefighter Robert J. Boyle (L-10) 1961--Firefighter Joseph G. Peragine (L-14) 1913--Engineer of Steamer Seneca Larke (E-20) 1962--Firefighter Joseph E. Almon (L-35)

10 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 James Gordon Bennett Medal NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal

FIREFIGHTER PETER G. D EMONTREUX LADDER COMPANY 132 August 30, 2010, 0427 hours, Box 22-0963, 175 Putnam Avenue, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on January 27, 2002. Previously assigned to Engine 248. Brother, Lieutenant Louis Demontreux, is assigned to Engine 154. Recipient of one unit citation, plus the Chief Ray Downey Courage and Valor Award from Fire Engineering Magazine, Daily News Hero of the Month and NY Rotary Club Service award. Holds a BS degree in Business Management from the College of Staten Island. Resides on Staten Island with his wife, Gina, and their children, Peter, Jr., Allison, Evelyn and Gwyneth. enerally, brownstones are considered to be well-con- began venting the adjacent window to allow some of the blis- structed and capable of withstanding the ravages of fire. tering heat and dense smoke to escape. Without hesitation, FF GThis is possible since they are made of brick and stone, Demontreux turned back into the apartment to continue his giving them their strength, but brownstones also contain fire search. Crawling on his hands and knees, as quickly as possi- and heat as do non-fireproof buildings. These factors offer the ble, he was able to reach the rear room where he found the occupants security, but also make it challenging for other victim, the 51-year-old Clyde Mantany, who was at the Firefighters initiating searches and rescues. window, trying to get some relief from the smoke and heat. As strong as the exterior of these buildings are, they are Knowing there was no fire escape and it would take time nearly all wood on the inside, with open interior stairs that for a portable ladder to be brought to the rear or initiate a rope allow fire to travel quickly. This is further complicated by the rescue from above, FF Demontreux determined the only way lack of fire escapes (front and rear), since these are considered out was the window through which he came. Shielding Mr. private dwellings. In reality, very few are private dwellings. Mantany as best he could, the Firefighter led him back through The brownstone at 175 Putnam Avenue is a classic example-- the searing heat to the front of the building. As they entered the four stories, with limited access to the upper floors and rear of front room, the heat ignited into flame and engulfed both men, the building. setting their clothes on fire. FF Myers, still at the aerial, imme- When the phone alarm came in for this Box, it was fol- diately transmitted a mayday. lowed with numerous reports of people trapped inside the FF Demontreux, now on fire, with survival instincts telling building. Engine 235 arrived first and gave the 10-75. Ladder him to get out, decided not to leave Mr. Mantany behind. 132 arrived a minute later and members immediately covered Through this fully involved room and at extreme personal risk, their positions. he pulled the burning victim toward the window. Ladder 132 is a unit that has responded to numerous FF Demontreux, while being burned from the flames all brownstone fires and, normally, their skills and training would around him, exhibited courage and tenacity by assisting the make this a routine job. However, this was not a routine job. victim out the window to FF Myers, who was on the aerial. At the third-floor window was a trapped victim; 60-year- Once the victim cleared the window, FF Demontreux dove old Henri Howell, who was in a very tenuous position with onto the aerial and both victim and rescuer were extinguished high heat and dense smoke pushing all around him. FF Peter by members operating Engine 219’s hand-line, which was Demontreux, the outside vent positioned in front of the building. Firefighter, climbed the aerial to the Both victim and rescuer suffered third floor and pulled Mr. Howell onto extensive burns; Mr. Mantany received the aerial. burns over 50 percent of his body, but is Once he had the victim safely on the alive. Although it was destroyed, his aerial, Mr. Howell told his rescuer that protective gear saved FF Demontreux. his friend was still inside the burning Words are inadequate to describe FF apartment. Time was a critical factor; Peter G. Demontreux’ heroic actions. He the inside team was still a floor below put his life on the line for another human due to the amount of fire on the stairs being. His courage and professionalism and in the hall. FF Demontreux entered reinforce the traditions of the fire service the third-floor window and began his and FDNY and always will be remem- search. Even with all the modern per- bered by those who witnessed this act of sonal protective equipment (PPE), the bravery. For these reasons, he is honored heat and smoke drove FF Demontreux with the James Gordon Bennett Medal back to the window. and the New York State Honorary Fire Meanwhile, FF Richard Myers, FF Peter Demontreux tends to the victim he rescued. Chiefs Association Medal.--JTV Rescue 2, had climbed the aerial and Both victim and FF Demontreux suffered extensive burns. photo by Danny Iudici

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 11 Brooklyn Citizens Medal/ FF Louis Valentino Award FIREFIGHTER CHARLES J. DODENHOFF RESCUE COMPANY 2

August 30, 2010, 0428 hours, Box 22-0963, 175 Putnam Avenue, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on January 16, 1994. Prior assignments include Engine 320, Ladder 54 and Squad 61. Grandfather, Battalion Chief Henry Dodenhoff (now deceased), was retired from Battalion 34. Resides in Islip Terrace, Long Island, with his wife, Michele, and their daughters, Shannon, Chelsea and Cassie.

he borough of Brooklyn is no stranger to challenging conditions on the stairway and realizing that the rear of the fires. Its vast population, staggering size and unique fourth floor could not be readily accessed from the front due Tdiversity of construction render the borough of church- to the unique construction of the building, FF Dodenhoff pre- es a place where an FDNY Firefighter quickly develops strong pared for a roof rope rescue. He worked closely with FF Abel skills and good judgment. These attributes were on display Gonzalez, Ladder 132, in deploying the rope and tying off. FF August 30, 2010, when an early-morning fire erupted in a Dodenhoff rapidly disembarked from the roof edge. heavily occupied, four-story, multiple dwelling at 175 Putnam Arriving at the victim’s location, FF Dodenhoff learned Avenue. that a second victim, an unconscious woman, was present in Rescue 2 received the alarm while on the air, returning the room behind the male victim. The rescuer entered the room from an earlier fire. The members quickly rolled into a fire through the window and disengaged from the rope. The male scene that tested the decision-making skills and expertise of victim was exhibiting extreme anxiety, bordering on panic. FF the entire company and, in particular, the capabilities of FF Dodenhoff provided firm reassurance, restored the man’s con- Charles Dodenhoff. fidence and rapidly and adroitly secured the roof rope to the The arrival of Rescue 2 coincided with numerous, rapidly victim. He then assisted the man out the window, whereupon developing circumstances. The fire the victim was safely lowered to the was unusually large and had gained street by FF Gonzalez. possession of the entire open interior FF Dodenhoff then turned his stairwell that led to all floors. The attention to the unconscious woman. first-arriving engine company, He provided immediate medical care Engine 235, was positioned on the and was assisted by the inside team front entrance stoop, but had not yet of Rescue 2, which included received water at the nozzle. Most Lieutenant Dan Murphy and FFs importantly, it was clear that numer- Hank Fried, Richie Myers and Bill ous occupants of the building were Eisengrein. These members--who trapped and in dire need of immediate also performed heroically--had rescue from the rapidly growing fire. fought their way up the interior Members of Rescue 2 swung into stairs in a punishing climb to per- action. While the inside team ascend- form interior rescue. The woman ed to the entrance of the building, FF was safely removed to the street via Dodenhoff climbed the aerial to the the interior stairs. roof with the lifesaving rope. After FF Dodenhoff effected the res- assuring that preliminary roof venti- cue of two civilians by employing lation had been accomplished, he initiative, rapid decision-making and made an inspection of the rear. The implementation of long-practiced Firefighter observed a male victim skills, all while facing personal dan- who was enveloped in a stream of ger. FF Charles Dodenhoff is worthy thick, pushing smoke in a fourth- of recognition by the Fire floor window. Department and is awarded the Recognizing that interior rescue Brooklyn Citizens Medal/FF Louis was unlikely due to the heavy fire The fire building from which FF Charles J. Dodenhoff Valentino Award.--JF rescued two victims. photo by Danny Iudici

12 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Christopher J. Prescott Medal October 28, 2010 St. Barnabas Hospital Emergency Room, East 183rd Street/3rd Avenue, Bronx EMT KYLE R. BARBARIA STATION 26 (LEFT) EMT EDWARD RODRIGUEZ STATION 20 (RIGHT)

Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on July 7, 2004. Recipient of two Technician on July 27, 2009. Resides in the pre-hospital saves. Resides in the Bronx. Bronx with his wife, Yudelkis, and their chil- dren, Stephenie and Ryan. uring the response to a job, while operating on-scene or statements of an NYPD officer, he’s got my gun. The tension even while en route to the hospital, EMS members rou- quickly mounted as bystanders, patients and workers alike fled Dtinely allow instinct, experience, training and quick for their lives as the uncertainty of the situation built. thinking to support their knowledge of medicine and provide Unbeknown to EMT Barbaria, EMT Rodriguez was just steps their patient with the best care possible. When a crew arrives behind him, rushing to the aid of the officer. at the Emergency Room (ER), however, the sense of urgency Reaching the commotion, EMT Rodriguez jumped on the fades as the medical professionals in the hospital continue the three in an attempt to secure the weapon. He could feel the per- work started in the field. Normally, it’s a time for reflection petrator continuing to struggle to try to squeeze the trigger and and readying themselves and their equipment for the next free the gun. Not knowing what would happen next, EMT assignment. On the evening of October 28, 2010, however, the Rodriguez immediately was calmed by a glimpse of the famil- routine down time in the ER was anything but calm for EMTs iar shoulder patch and emblem. Seeing EMT Barbaria, EMT Kyle Barbaria and Edward Rodriguez. Rodriguez thought to himself, okay, he’s not gonna let me After arriving at the ER at St. Barnabas Hospital, each down. We’ve got this. with his respective unit, EMTs Barbaria and Rodriguez were With the help of EMTs Barbaria and Rodriguez, the offi- awaiting triage with their respective patients. Neither of them cer was able to regain his weapon and immediately called for particularly knew the other, other than the recognition of a col- back-up, while the EMTs continued to subdue the patient. league wearing that familiar FDNY uniform and the fraternal Other members of EMS who remained in the ER joined in to bond that joins them as pre-hospital care professionals. In a hold the perpetrator down, until resources from NYPD arrived. moment, without warning, they were about to trust their very In speaking of the incident later on, EMT Barbaria said his lives to that unspoken relationship. reaction was visceral. My mind went blank and I reacted, With the ER buzzing and patients and care providers mov- except for one thing...my two-year-old daughter. He worried ing about, a commotion oddly different from the normal, con- for her, but says if it happened again today, he’d do the same trolled chaos began to develop in the room across from the thing. EMT Rodriguez calls his actions nothing special. All triage area where EMTs Barbaria and Rodriguez waited with we’ve got is each other out here, EMT Rodriguez said. Even their patients. EMT Barbaria was the first to pick up on the when their Lieutenant began the process for meritorious acts developing commotion as an NYPD officer began struggling recognition, both members did not want to be recognized. with a patient. He wasn’t sure what was happening, but it was At a time of great danger to their personal safety and well- clear that the officer was in trouble. The patient, now turned being, these two EMS professionals placed their lives on the perpetrator, was struggling with the officer, reaching for his line to help a police officer facing certain peril. Had it not been weapon. EMT Barbaria knew he had to act and engaged the for the bravery and courage displayed by EMTs Kyle Barbaria situation, exploding onto the two from behind and knocking and Edward Rodriguez, the outcome on the evening of the perpetrator and the officer to the ground. October 28, 2010, almost certainly would have ended in In an instant, the room that was filled with individual tragedy. In recognition of their actions, the Department pres- groups of people in various activities organized into a con- ents them with the most prestigious EMS award--the trolled panic as mass groups exited the room to the frantic Christopher J. Prescott Medal.--RT

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 13 Hugh Bonner Medal Honor Legion Medal FIREFIGHTER STEVEN V. T ROCHE LADDER COMPANY 58

September 15, 2010, 0615 hours, Box 22-3070, 418 Bronx Park Avenue, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on August 16, 1998. Previously assigned to Engine 279. Resides in Floral Park, Long Island, with his wife, Nancy, and their children, Kelly, Nicky, Julia and Olivia.

ue to their all-wood construction feature and the fact a low ceiling height of only six feet. Ventilation was minimal, that they were built during a period of many years-- creating a toxic smoke condition with zero visibility. Dsome in the early 1900s--the row frame-type private Captain Principio directed FF Troche to search to the dwelling presents a far more complex fire problem than the right, as FF Tynan was directed to start using his extinguisher average private dwelling. Of significance, the common or on visible fire. Simultaneously, the Captain began his search poorly firestopped cockloft and cornice permit rapid fire to the left, which was the kitchen and bathroom. Passing this spread into exposures. Thus, on September 15, 2010, at 0615 area and reaching the first bedroom, Captain Principio ordered hours, the members of Ladder 58 and, in particular, FF Steven FFs Troche and Tynan to continue toward the second and third V. Troche, would all be reminded just how complicated it is bedrooms. for FDNY Firefighters to battle a fire in this kind of dwelling. While negotiating through high heat and zero visibility, Ladder 58, commanded by Captain Joseph A. Principio, FF Troche found an unconscious and burned 20-year-old were dispatched for a phone alarm, reporting a fire at 418 female on the floor, in-between two beds. While attempting to Bronx Park Avenue in the Bronx, a residence for Tashauna remove the victim, he discovered her two-year-old child, Staples and her two-year-old son, Ahmad. Fortunately for the unconscious and badly burned, protected beneath her. Staples family, this section of the Bronx is well safeguarded Weighing options for a speedy removal of these victims, by the members of Ladder 58 and Engine 45. Captain Principio relayed the severity of the situation to the On arrival, Captain Principio noticed heavy smoke pushing Incident Commander, as FF Nicholas Marchese, the outside from the first floor and basement of this row frame-type private vent Firefighter, gained access through a rear basement door. dwelling. Subsequently, while conducting his size-up, he was Unfortunately, this door did not facilitate victim removal and informed by two self-evacuating and severely burned civilians left members no option but to risk going back up the stairs. that people were still trapped in the basement apartment. FFs Troche and Marchese lifted the unconscious mother, Heading toward their assigned positions, the inside team-- while FF Tynan scooped up the unconscious child. The mem- Captain Principio, forcible entry Firefighter, FF Troche, and bers used themselves as protective shields to pass the intense extinguisher Firefighter, FF Peter F. Tynan, Engine 45--entered heat and fire in the hallway as they made their way up the nar- the first floor to locate the interior stairs to the basement apart- row and steep stairway. Through discomfort and pain, the three ment. The stairs were located rescuers were able to reach the approximately 20 feet inside the first floor, where they were met by first-floor hallway. These stairs the advancing members of Engine were only 24 inches wide and 45. After reaching the first floor, because of their steepness, creat- both mother and child were rapid- ed a chimney-like effect of pun- ly transferred into the hands of ishing heat and smoke. EMS personnel. Fighting through the discom- This rescue was successful fort caused by the intense heat due to the selfless act of bravery during their descent into the of all the members of Ladder 58, basement, members discovered a but especially that of FF Steven three-bedroom apartment at the V. Troche. Thanks to FF Troche’s base of the stairs. Compounding efforts, both victims have recov- this emergency was that the fire ered from severe life-threatening was in an advanced stage, with injuries and are alive and well possession of a narrow, 30-inch- today. For these reasons, he is wide hallway, and extending into presented with the Hugh Bonner the bedrooms. Adding to the Ladder 58 members worked at Bronx Box 75-2908, 1711 Boone Medal and the Honor Legion rapid progression of this fire was Avenue, near 174th Street, in the West Farms section, November Medal.--PWB 25, 2009. photo by FF Steven Troche

14 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Emily Trevor/ Mary B. Warren Medal FIREFIGHTER DANTE R. MAZZETTI LADDER COMPANY 12 August 9, 2010, 2303 hours, Box 22-0596, 214 West 21st Street, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on August 5, 2007. Studied Liberal Arts and Music at SUNY at Purchase. Resides in Manhattan with his wife, Jessica.

adder 12 received a phone alarm for a structural fire at Chief Christopher Boyle, Battalion 7, transmitted a second 214 West 21st Street, on August 9, 2010, at 2303 hours. alarm, expecting the fire conditions and auto-exposure to LEn route, Ladder 12 was informed by the dispatchers extend the fire to the floor above. that they were receiving multiple calls from the location, a six- The forcible entry team took refuge in the front bedroom. story, non-fireproof building with 30 apartments. On arrival, Knowing a life was at risk, however, they made another Lieutenant Jack Bradley, Ladder 12, transmitted the 10-75 for attempt toward the living room, still without the protection of a fire visible from two windows on the fourth floor. a charged hose-line. As FF Mazzetti moved through the apart- The Lieutenant entered the building with his inside team, ment in an attempt to locate the fire and control it with his which included FF Dante Mazzetti, carrying the extinguisher, extinguisher, he located the woman in the living room and and FF Christopher Mallery, the irons Firefighter. Ascending promptly transmitted the 10-45. FF Mazzetti shielded the the stairs to the fire floor, they were met by several self-evac- woman from the intense heat as Engine 1 members arrived uating building occupants who confirmed that a 96-year-old with their hose-line. Lieutenant Robert Narducci, Engine 1, female, Katina Voultespsis, was in the apartment, 3A. ordered the line to protect the members effecting the removal Arriving at the apartment door, the inside team found heavy of Ms. Voultespsis. smoke pushing from around the door frame. FF Mallery posi- In Chief Boyle’s report on the meritorious act, he noted, tioned himself to The actions of force entry, FF Mazzetti while Lieutenant provided her Bradley and FF only chance for Mazzetti cleared survival. the stairs and Although she public hall of ultimately suc- fleeing occupants. cumbed to her After forc- injuries, FF ing entry, the Mazzetti’s con- crew entered the duct was in the apartment under highest tradi- high heat and tions of the fire zero visibility. service. In As the team recognition for searched deeper his heroic into the apart- efforts under ment, the brutal condi- remaining win- tions, FF Dante dows in the Mazzetti is apartment failed, awarded the intensifying the Emily fire and lighting Trevor/Mary B. up the living Warren Medal.-- room. At this FF Dante Mazzetti (third from the left)--with members of Ladder 12--was awarded the Emily CF point, Battalion Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 15 Thomas E. Crimmins Medal

FIREFIGHTER ROBERT A. DIAZ LADDER COMPANY 166

February 16, 2010, 1215 hours, Box 75-3541, 2970 West 24th Street, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on May 31, 2005. Resides on Staten Island with his wife, Jeanine.

ires occurring in occupied multiple dwellings generally Because of the lack of solid information and confusing mean that people are trapped and in need of assistance. apartment configurations (duplex apartments on several floors), FSuch was the case on February 16, 2010, at 2970 West search for the fire apartment began several floors below the 24th Street, Brooklyn. The involved building was a 17-story, 15th floor. On arrival at the 15th floor and advancing through a 100- by 50-foot, high-rise multiple dwelling, featuring six smoke-filled hallway, FF Diaz and the forcible entry team apartments on each floor. found the fire apartment. At this time, Ladder 166 was At 1215 hours, numerous phone alarms were received at informed that the first hose-line would not be in position to pro- the Brooklyn Fire Communications Office for a fire and smoke tect them as they entered the fire apartment. in a building in the vicinity of West 24th Street. This informa- Despite the high heat and heavy smoke condition with zero tion was transmitted to the local firehouses, including Ladder visibility, FF Diaz crawled into the fire apartment in search of 166. Combining a fast turnout, quick response and heroic any trapped civilians. He went through the kitchen and the liv- action would be necessary to lessen the severity of injuries, if ing room, searching all areas, then into the bedroom, where he any occupants were trapped. felt a medical oxygen nebulizing Thanks to training and experience, machine. the members of Ladder 166 were At this time, the heat was inten- up to this task. sifying and visibility was non-exis- On arrival, members noticed tent. FF Diaz followed a medical smoke pushing out of windows on oxygen line to a closet, where he the upper floors of this high-rise encountered piles of clothes and pil- apartment building. Lieutenant lows. At the bottom of this pile, he Michael Johnson, Engine 318, discovered a young boy. FF Diaz transmitted a 10-75, notifying began dragging the unconscious incoming units that there was a child toward the public hallway, working fire at this location. The even though the fire now was rolling members of Ladder 166 sized up over their heads. He had to shield the the situation and realized the ardu- victim with his body to lessen the ous task ahead of them, knowing severity of injuries. As they reached that this operation would be a the public hallway, FF Diaz carried challenge to rescue any trapped the 11-year-old boy to the floor civilians in the apartments on the below the fire, providing mouth-to- upper floors. mouth resuscitation en route. FF Robert Diaz, along with FF Diaz’ courage and selfless other members of the forcible actions in a dangerous situation, entry team, entered the elevator. without the protection of a charged They had the knowledge and hose-line, are indicative of his awareness to operate this elevator heroic rescue of the young boy. For on Firemen Service to ensure their his initiative and bravery, without safety as they ascended to the regard for his own safety, the upper floors. At this time, Ladder FDNY is proud to honor FF Robert 166 was not aware of the exact A. Diaz with the Thomas E. location of the fire. FF Robert Diaz leaves his apparatus to go to work. Crimmins Medal.--EB

16 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal

LIEUTENANT EDWARD J. GONZALEZ LADDER COMPANY 161

August 27, 2010, 0238 hours, Box 22-3545, 2686 Colby Court, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on July 5, 1988. Previously assigned to Engine 210 and Ladder 122. Son, EMT Edward J. Gonzalez, Jr., is assigned to EMS Station 57. Recipient of one unit citation. Holds an AAS degree in Applied Science from the College of Staten Island. Resides on Staten Island, with his wife, Cindy, and their four chil- dren, Edward, Jr., Brittany, Nicholas and Samantha.

ugust 27, 2010, was an in-between night--not too hot a radio message from his outside vent Firefighter, stating that and not too cold--with the temperature in the high 60s. fire had extended into the cockloft. Two more victims were ASoon, however, it became quite hot for Lieutenant reported to be somewhere in the apartment. The Officer, despite Edward Gonzalez, a 22-year veteran of the Department, and the fact that there still was no hose-line protecting him, know- his inside team of Ladder 161. At 0238 hours, they responded ing he was at risk of having his escape route cut off by the first-due to a report of fire at 2686 Colby Court, a six-story, 50- expanding fire and that the fire now burned over his head in the by 200-foot, H-type, Class 3, multiple dwelling that provided cockloft and could drop down on him at any time, pushed past a home to 120 families. Despite the heavy foliage of the neigh- the fire, extending his search deeper into the confines. borhood trees, the fire was immediately visible on the build- The Lieutenant crawled into the rear bedroom and found ing’s top floor. the second victim, an 80-year-old woman. As he transmitted Lieutenant Gonzalez led his interior team--FFs Nicholas the second 10-45 signal and began dragging her out of the bed- Shelse, forcible entry Firefighter, and Keith Norris, the extin- room and back toward the public hall, Lieutenant Gonzalez guisher Firefighter--up the building’s single, centrally located, heard the welcome sound of Engine 245’s Officer call to his interior stairs. Because the apartment door was open, thick, chauffeur to start water in his line. Moving down the hallway black smoke already was banking down the stairs as they toward the apartment door, the Officer encountered Engine masked up on the fifth floor. Arriving on the sixth floor, the 245 members advancing their line. Lieutenant put the unit’s thermal imaging camera to good use, As he passed them with the victim, Lieutenant Gonzalez’ piercing the impenetrable wall of smoke mask was dislodged, exposing him to a and identifying the fire apartment. witch’s brew of hot smoke. At this point, FF As they crawled down the hall toward Shelse was able to assist him in removing the fire apartment, they could hear the the victim from the burning apartment, out efforts of the engine company stretching the into the public hall. Once in the hall, the first hose-line. It was a long stretch--13 victim was entrusted to a Firefighter from lengths--and Lieutenant Gonzalez knew that Engine 254 for removal and patient care. they would have to operate for some time Hearing another 10-45 transmitted for a without the protection of a charged line. third victim and despite having taken a feed Now, at the apartment door, despite the when his mask was dislodged, Lieutenant increasing heat and without the protection Gonzalez and his team returned to the rear of a hose-line, the Officer initiated his pri- bedroom and removed the victim from the mary search inside the smoke-choked apart- apartment and down to the fourth floor. ment. The Lieutenant directed FF Shelse to During this process, the Lieutenant lost his search left, while he and FF Norris searched balance and fell on the stairs. He was to the right. FF Shelse quickly encountered removed to the hospital and treated for a victim in the apartment hallway. After smoke inhalation and an injured elbow. transmitting the 10-45 signal, notifying the Lieutenant Gonzalez performed in Incident Commander that a victim had been accordance with the highest traditions of found, Lieutenant Gonzalez directed FF the FDNY. He exhibited initiative, leader- Shelse to drag the victim down the hall and ship, determination and competence. out of the fire apartment. He then had FF Because civilian life was at stake, he know- Norris try to hold the expanding fire in ingly put himself in danger to save Estelle check with his 21/2-gallon extinguisher, Galperin. Because of his heroism that day, while he continued the search, moving Lieutenant Edward J. Gonzalez is recog- deeper into the apartment. nized with the Thomas A. Kenny Memorial As indicated in the diagram, Lieutenant Fire was extending out of the bedroom Edward Gonzalez twice passed fire to res- Medal.--FCM on his right as Lieutenant Gonzalez received cue a victim.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 17 Walter Scott Medal FIREFIGHTER ANTONIO MONTESINO SQUAD COMPANY 18

April 11, 2010, 2214 hours, Box 77-0259, 283 Grand Street, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on May 4, 2003. Previously assigned to Engine 52. Resides in New City, NY, with his wife, Betty, and their children, Lorenzo and Luna.

ust after 2200 hours on April 11, 2010, Squad 18 was sent ed. Lieutenant Cancro was able to get through on the radio to from their firehouse to an apartment building fire at 289 relay the message about victim removal. On hearing the radio JGrand Street in Chinatown. On arrival, the members of signal, Battalion Chief James A. Smithwick, Battalion 2, and Squad 18 noticed heavy smoke from several buildings, making Engine 7 responded to the location, where Engine 7 members it very difficult to pinpoint the origin of the fire. After report- helped remove the victim down the stairs and out of the building. ing to Deputy Chief Robert E. Carroll, Division 1, the Squad With the first victim removed, Lieutenant Cancro and FF members were ordered to search two buildings adjacent to the Montesino re-entered the second-floor apartment to complete then-assumed fire building. the search. Due to high heat and crackling sounds, the Officer Lieutenant Edward F. Cancro split his company between knew that the fire soon would overtake the second floor, so he the two buildings (283 and 285 Grand Street) to expedite the requested, via the radio, a protective hose-line, which would searches. FF Antonio Montesino was sent to 283 Grand Street, not be in place for several minutes. a six-story tenement. Unknown to him and the other FF Montesino crawled past the point where he found the Firefighters and Officers, he was headed to the fire’s origin. first victim, following the wall to his left about 25 feet into the As FF Montesino entered the building, he was surprised apartment, when he heard a faint moan to his right. The rescuer by the heavy smoke encountered on the first floor. A civilian crawled at a right angle from the wall, toward the moans, into told him that more people were trapped upstairs, a piece of a bedroom. He found a bed and began searching under and over information that changed his approach drastically. Even it. With only seconds left before he would have to retreat from though he was alone, FF Montesino had to search more the apartment due to the intense heat, FF Montesino made one aggressively with the knowledge of a confirmed life hazard. last lunge over the bed to find a second victim, 80-year-old He transmitted his location and the conditions to the Chung Shimi Lam, between the bed and the wall. Command Post and donned his facepiece, entering the black FF Montesino grabbed the victim under the arms and made smoke. FF Montesino found the stairwell and ascended to the his way back out of the apartment. Nearing exhaustion, the second-floor public hallway. Firefighter dragged the unconscious victim through the apart- While crawling down the pitch-black hallway, FF ment and into the public hallway. At this point, the victim was Montesino found an apartment door to his left. From behind the passed to FF Brian R. McGuire, also from Squad 18, who door, he heard the sounds of a struggling occupant; time was removed the victim to the street and began CPR. It was learned running out for this person. FF Montesino determined that the later that at the same time FF Montesino located the second vic- apartment door was locked, but he was tim, the floor collapsed in another room able to break through the locks and of the apartment, which greatly intensi- open the door with his Halligan tool. fied the heat build-up in the area. After crawling about 10 feet into FF Montesino’s decisive and the apartment, he found a semi-con- aggressive actions, combined with scious, 86-year-old woman, Mei Ge clear and accurate communications, Zheng, on the kitchen floor. FF were instrumental in the removal of Montesino tried to transmit the signal the two victims. He operated alone in for a confirmed fire victim on the hand- an advanced fire environment without ie-talkie, but radio traffic was too heavy. a charged hose-line, putting himself in The second time FF Montesino trans- danger. Had it not been for FF mitted, Lieutenant Cancro acknowl- Montesino’s training, coupled with his edged his Firefighter and headed courage and determination, the vic- toward FF Montesino to assist him. tims surely would have perished. For When the Lieutenant found FF his bravery, FF Antonio Montesino is Montesino, he was dragging the victim awarded the Walter Scott Medal.--SN out of the apartment and down the hall Squad 18 members operate from the fire escape at as fire and smoke conditions deteriorat- Manhattan Box 77-0259. photo by Fred Bacchi

18 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 John H. Prentice Medal FIREFIGHTER ROBERT CUCCIO LADDER COMPANY 58

July 18, 2010, 1452 hours, Box 2971, waterfalls at Bronx Park at East 180th Street/Boston Road, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on July 28, 2002. Previously assigned to Engines 36 and 45. Resides in Baldwin, Long Island, with his wife, Sara, and their children, Kyle, Anna and Olivia.

n the afternoon of July 18, 2010, Ladder 58 received a call scuba equipment. After approximately seven to eight minutes, for reports of a child in the water, a drowning or possibly in an area just above the waterfall, FF Cuccio dove down and Ia missing child. On arrival, the members of Ladder 58 wit- located a 15-year-old female, who was entangled in tree nessed a commotion in an area about 100 yards into Bronx branches approximately 15 feet below the water’s surface. Park. This particular location is the top of a waterfall, which is FF Cuccio worked to disentangle her and was able to fed by the Bronx River. Additional information indicated that bring her to the surface. He then swam with her to the eastern two teenagers had entered the water and were not seen exiting. bank of the river. She was passed off and removed across the FF Robert Cuccio, Ladder 58, along with FFs Martin waterfall, where EMS personnel were standing by to tend to Murphy and Thomas Wutz, Jr., also of Ladder 58, climbed her. She was packaged and removed up the rocky embankment over a fence, climbed down the steep rocks and removed their by EMS members, along with FFs Leto and Davis. With her handie-talkies. The men immediately dove into the water. removal, Captain Principio ordered his members to continue Captain Joseph Principio conferred with an NYPD Lieutenant diving and searching until Rescue 3 entered the water. The on the scene regarding whether the situation was confirmed. It young woman was transported to St. Barnabus Hospital. was, in fact, confirmed and two people were missing. They At this incident, FF Cuccio made repeated efforts, diving were pulled underwater and tangled in debris. below the dark, murky waters, searching through tree branch- The Captain ordered the lifesaving rope deployed as a es for the victims. Using his sense of feel, he groped through lifeline for FF Cuccio and the other members in the water. FF the debris until he found the overcome woman. His tenacity, Phil Leto, Ladder 58, manned the rope on the river bank, while bravery and skill were rewarded. He was in peril as he dove FF Duane Davis, Ladder 58, brought the necessary tools to the into the water to attempt to find the two missing people. point of operation so the fence could be opened for better FF Cuccio’s brave actions gave the young woman the best access to the scene. chance for survival. The Captain and Although she ulti- remaining Firefighters mately expired in the continued to monitor hospital, the the water from the Firefighter’s efforts river bank and provide are by no means back-up assistance as diminished. His brav- needed. ery was in keeping The water running with the highest tradi- in this waterway tions of Ladder 58 measures about 100 and Engine 45, as feet wide, is very dark well as the New York and murky and the City Fire Department. riverbed is strewn In recognition of his with branches and heroism, FF Robert debris. FF Cuccio and Cuccio is awarded the the members in the John H. Prentice water kept diving, Medal.--TW franticly searching as best they could with- Ladder 58 operates at Bronx Box 22-3177, 452 East 182nd Street/Washington Avenue, in the out the benefit of Tremont section, on April 15, 2011. photo by FF Michael Gomez, Squad 288

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 19 Henry D. Brookman Medal

FIREFIGHTER WILLIAM L. ROESCH, JR. LADDER COMPANY 168

November 1, 2010, 1230 hours, Box 75-2840, 1738 79th Street, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on August 16, 1998. Previously assigned to Engine 243. Uncle, FF Glenn Ott, is retired from Engine 266; cousin, FF Mike Ott, is assigned to Engine 311; and brothers-in-law, FFs Mike Donovan and Craig Dunn, are assigned to Ladder 36 and Engine 313, respectively. Member of the Steuben Association and Emerald Society. Resides in Queens with his wife, Shannon, and their sons, William, III, and Jack.

hile New York City sanitation workers are known as Roesch removed the aluminum-clad window, sash and jamb. the Strongest, there are moments when the Bravest However, he was unable to access the lag bolts that held the Wdemonstrate how brute strength, coupled with deter- security bars. The Firefighter employed all possible means of mination and devotion to duty, make a difference at a critical entry, managing to make only a narrow opening at the bottom moment. This was the case on a chilly November afternoon as of the bars. As the smoke lifted somewhat, he saw the victim a fire broke out at 1738 79th Street in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. again and realized time was short. The rescuer then got onto At 1230 hours, FF William L. Roesch, Jr., and Ladder 168, his hands and knees and placed his shoulders to the security while on inspection duty, were dispatched to Box 2840 for a bars. Using all his strength, FF Roesch was able to bend the reported fire. On arrival, members did not detect any fire from bars just enough to access the interior. the front of the three-story, 40- by 80-foot, old law tenement. On entry, FF Roesch was met with a high heat and smoke However, conditions inside the building were far different. condition. The badly burned victim was in a prone position, Engine 243 (a four-Firefighter engine) began to stretch a wedged between several storage boxes. The victim could not be 13/4-inch line. Ladder 168’s Officer, Lieutenant Michael dragged, so the rescuer was forced to lift her up and carry her Doda, had entered the building as part of the forcible entry the short distance over the debris until the heat became unbear- team and transmitted a 10-75 signal as fire was found on the able. He lowered her to the floor to escape the horrific condi- landing of the second floor. The Officer then radioed entry tions, but quickly renewed his efforts. He repeated these steps could not be made due to the advancing fire and a delay in several times and used a short piece of webbing, which provid- advancing the hose-line. Lieutenant Doda also noted the occu- ed him with a better grip to move the woman. The Firefighter pant of apartment 2R slowly moved her to the front of the apartment. Here, was missing. FF Roesch was met by the forcible entry team moving FF Roesch, work- into the apartment. These members assisted in remov- ing the outside vent ing the victim. position, was familiar In reporting the incident, Acting Deputy Chief with this kind of struc- Michael McLaughlin noted: FF Roesch’s actions ture. He knew that if a exemplify those traits and characteristics that this person was cut off Department holds most dearly. from the primary Through determination and egress, he/she would great effort, he entered an area move to the back bed- that placed him in direct expo- room to access a fire sure to the push of the advanc- escape. The Firefighter ing hose-line. This risk was proceeded to the rear of the compounded by his limited building and climbed the fire means of egress, had the situa- escape. Reaching the second tion deteriorated. His actions floor, his instincts were were the only actions that rewarded as he saw an uncon- would have resulted in a suc- scious victim on the floor of cessful rescue. Therefore, the the room. However, access Fire Department is proud to was cut off by a heavy-gauge honor FF William L. Roesch, steel security gate mounted on Jr., today with the Henry D. the inside of the window Brookman Medal.--DJH frame. Ladder 168 operates at Brooklyn Box 75-2840, the job for which FF William Working quickly, FF Roesch is being honored with the Henry D. Brookman Medal. Inset photo shows FF Roesch and Ladder 168 members, who worked with him that day.

20 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 M.J. Delehanty Medal

FIREFIGHTER JAMES G. M CNULTY LADDER COMPANY 170 February 5, 2010, 1818 hours, Box 75-1986, 752 Snediker Avenue, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on February 4, 2001. Member of the Emerald Society. Recipient of two Class As and two unit citations, as well as the Daily News Hero of the Month award. Holds a BA degree in History from Binghamton University. Resides in Kings Park, Long Island, with his wife, Elizabeth, and their son, J.T., and daughters, Caitlin and Ciara.

nscribed on the lobby wall of Buildings 9 and 11 at the The team members made their way toward the rear of the FDNY Fire Training Academy on Randall’s Island is the apartment, where the fire fully involved one of the two bed- Isaying, Let no man’s ghost come back to say, his training rooms and was extending into the living room, making it let him down. FDNY’s Firefighters constantly train and drill so impossible for the trapped children to escape. that they may be prepared for any challenge they encounter. Lieutenant Croak ordered FF Peterson to control the fire This extensive training was on display and exhibited by FF with his extinguisher and FF McNulty to search the adjoining James McNulty at Box 1986, 752 Snediker Avenue, Canarsie, bedroom. At this time, without the protection of a charged Brooklyn, when he rescued a two-year-old boy from a burning hand-line, FF McNulty made his move past the raging fire into old law tenement. the second bedroom, where he located two-year-old Reynaldo On February 5, 2010, at 1818 hours, the Brooklyn com- Perez, face-up and unresponsive on a bed. FF McNulty trans- munications office received a telephone alarm, reporting a fire mitted a 10-45 to Lieutenant Croak and Battalion Chief John in a multiple dwelling. After receiving the alarm, Engine 257 McKeon, Battalion 58. and Ladder 170 responded. While en route, the dispatcher FF McNulty then carried the motionless child past the fire, reported receiving multiple calls and reports of occupants again without a hand-line in place, and out of the apartment. trapped in an apartment. He carried him down to the street, where he immediately A 10-75 was transmit- began CPR. Once FF ted for a fire on the top floor McNulty was relieved of of a two-story old law tene- the youngster’s care by ment building. As FF members of Engine 257-- McNulty grabbed his irons who did an outstanding to head in with the inside job, employing their CPR team--which also included skills--he returned to the Lieutenant William Croak fire apartment to continue and FF Paul Peterson--he his search. EMS personnel observed a woman hysteri- then transported the boy to cally screaming that her Brookdale Hospital and children were trapped in the subsequently to Cornell fire apartment. At this time, Hospital. the intensity of the fire was The heroic actions of such that the apartment win- FF McNulty, effecting a dows had failed and heavy, rescue without the protec- black smoke was emanating tion of a charged hose-line from the apartment. and putting himself in FF McNulty and the danger, is the reason why inside team reached the fire Reynaldo Perez is alive apartment and donned their today. For his bravery and masks. Making entry into serving as a role model for the fire apartment, the acrid the Department, FF James smoke reduced visibility to G. McNulty is awarded the zero, making search condi- M.J. Delehanty Medal.-- tions extremely difficult. SI FF James G. McNulty on the fireground.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 21 William F. Conran Medal

LIEUTENANT WILLIAM R. CROAK LADDER COMPANY 170 February 5, 2010, 1818 hours, Box 75-1986, 752 Snediker Avenue, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on September 25, 1982. Previous assignments include Engines 237 and 274 and Ladder 124. Member of the Steuben Association. Recipient of the Thomas F. Dougherty and Albert S. Johnston Medals, as well as two unit citations. Retired as a Command Master Chief after 30 years with the Navy SeaBees, both active and reserve. Resides in Valley Stream, Long Island, with his wife, Karen. They have three children--Billy, Jr., Janette and Jason.

hortly into the night tour of February 5, 2010, Ladder were just beginning to stretch their hose-line from the street to 170 was responding to a reported fire in a multiple the second-floor fire apartment. Sdwelling. Commanding the company on this tour was After finding a victim, FF McNulty transmitted a 10-45 Lieutenant William R. Croak. He acknowledged the Brooklyn over his radio. Hearing this report, Lieutenant Croak knew dispatcher’s report of multiple calls with people trapped. that another victim was trapped somewhere in this apartment. Arriving at 752 Snediker Avenue, the members of Ladder His search of the living room yielded negative results. The 170 saw numerous people rapidly exiting the two-story, 20- by Officer doubled his efforts, passed the fire and entered the 50-foot brick dwelling. As Lieutenant Croak and his inside team same bedroom in which FF McNulty had found his victim. of FFs Paul Peterson, the extinguisher Firefighter, and James Lieutenant Croak thoroughly searched this room and lifted McNulty, the irons Firefighter, entered the building, they were the mattress from the bed. It was here that the Lieutenant’s expe- told by the fleeing occupants that kids were trapped on the sec- rience paid off, because after lifting off the mattress, he found the ond floor. In his size-up, Lieutenant Croak noticed that smoke motionless body of a child, face-down under the bed. Four-year- was billowing from the second-floor windows, which already old Ezekial Perez was not breathing and had no pulse. had failed, due to the heat. He requested that Battalion Chief Lieutenant Croak radioed his find to Chief McKeon, scooped the John McKeon, Battalion 58, transmit the 10-75. child up and felt his way back to the apartment entrance. When Lieutenant Croak and his Firefighters made their After exiting the fire building with the injured child, the way to the second floor, they found the hallway filling with Officer handed him off to the members of Engine 257. These smoke because the apartment door had been left open. On their Firefighters did an outstanding job and successfully revived the hands and knees and masked up, Lieutenant Croak and his child before turning his care over to EMS personnel, who trans- inside team entered the fire apartment, where they were met by ported him to Brookdale Hospital. Due to the severity of his high heat and heavy injuries, the youngster smoke. Without the pro- was transferred to NY tection of a hose-line, the Cornell Hospital for members began to feel treatment in the pediatric their way toward the hyperbaric chamber. bedrooms located in the Lieutenant Croak’s back of the apartment. experience and bravery, FF Peterson went to particularly without the the bedroom on the left protection of a hose- and used his extinguish- line, led to the rescue of er to hold the fire back. Ezekial Perez. It is with The fire was extending honor that Lieutenant into the living room, William R. Croak is which is where awarded the William F. Lieutenant Croak began Conran Medal for his his search, while FF actions.--AP McNulty began search- ing the adjoining bed- room. Engine 290 had arrived, but members Members of Ladder 170 operated at Bristol Street, between Linden Boulevard and Ditmas Avenue, Brooklyn, April 9, 2009. photo by FF Peter Brady, Ladder 174

22 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal FIREFIGHTER ANTHONY E. CHAIMOWITZ LADDER COMPANY 112 March 10, 2010, 2228 hours, Box 75-0851, 732 Decatur Street, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on February 16, 1999. Previously assigned to Ladder 15. Cousin, FF John Vaeth, is assigned to Engine 257. Member of Ner Tamid Society. Served as a USN Petty Officer, 2nd class. Resides in Shoreham, Long Island, with his wife, Amy, and their sons, Gabrielle and Jack, and daughter, Peyton.

adder 112, stationed in the Bushwick section of to search for and locate the door to the third-floor apartment in Brooklyn, received a run to respond as the second-due zero visibility with a high heat condition surrounding him. He Ltruck for a fire at 732 Decatur Street with reports of was able to locate the apartment door and passed a bathroom people trapped, on March 10, 2010, at 2228 hours. FF and kitchen before locating the bedroom. A hose-line was not Anthony Chaimowitz was assigned the irons for the tour and operating yet on the third floor as FF Chaimowitz performed knew that his company would be operating on the floor above his search and located 40-year-old Eddie Ortiz on the bed in the fire, which is always a dangerous position. the rear bedroom. When Ladder 112 arrived at the Box, the members were FF Chaimowitz then transmitted a 10-45, removed the met by heavy fire and smoke venting out the front door of the victim to the floor and began dragging him to the front win- parlor floor of a three-story brownstone. The fire had control dows. As the rescuer was passing the front door to the apart- of two rear rooms on the second floor and the second-floor ment, he could hear Engine 233 operating its hose-line up the hallway and was extending up the interior stairs to the third- stairs. FF Chaimowitz opened the door to check the conditions floor hallway and into the third-floor rear bedroom via an open and realized that he could remove the victim down the interi- door. or stairs and out to the street. Lieutenant Victor Rosa, Ladder 112, ordered FF He was preparing to start CPR on the victim, but turned Chaimowitz up to patient care over to the third floor with an engine company. the truck’s outside The man’s pulse was team to conduct restored and he was searches for the transported to trapped occupants. Interfaith Medical As the engine com- Center by EMS per- pany began to knock sonnel. down the fire on the Unfortunately, he second floor, FF passed away while in Chaimowitz, with- the hospital. out hesitation or In spite of the regard for his own sad outcome, FF safety, proceeded up Anthony the stairs to the third Chaimowitz gave floor. As the Eddie Ortiz his best Firefighter was chance to survive. making his way up For his heroics, he is the stairs, the hall- officially recognized way reignited and by the FDNY on he was forced to the Medal Day and is floor. presented with the The conditions Mayor Fiorello H. became worse and LaGuardia Medal.-- Ladder 112 operated at Queens Box 75-4044, 1717 Palmetto Street/Seneca Avenue, July 21, FF Chaimowitz had 2010. FDNY members removed nine civilians who were suffering from smoke inhalation and NG minor injuries. photo by Allen Epstein

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 23 Tracy Allen-Lee Medal

November 1, 2010 Brooklyn Avenue/Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn

EMT EMT DEWEY A. MENDONCA GARFIELD A. SMYTHE STATION 44 STATION 44

Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on July 11, 2005. Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on February 22, Recipient of a Unit of the Month award. Resides in Queens. 1988. Resides in Brooklyn.

he 44C3 crew of EMTs Dewey Mendonca and As the victim was struggling to restrain the dog’s head Garfield Smythe started their tour on Monday, after receiving deep lacerations to his right arm and left TNovember 1, 2010, in much the same way that wrist, the patient--wounded and exhausted from the strug- other units start their tour at Station 44, Brownsville, also gle--could not hold the dog off any longer. Recognizing known as the Rockaway Roadrunners. The pair received that there was an imminent life threat to the victim, EMTs and checked their equipment, conducted an ambulance Mendonca and Smythe attempted to help hold the dog inspection, logged on and believed it would be another down. The pit bull terrier then released its grip from the routine day in the life of an FDNY EMS Paramedic or victim, managed to break free from the EMTs and bit EMT. EMT Mendonca on the right forearm. How quickly that assumption changed. EMTs EMT Mendonca was able to free his arm from the pit Mendonca and Smythe received an assignment not too bull and his partner, EMT Smythe, shouted and waved his long after they logged on. They responded, treated and arms, scaring the animal away. Noticing he had some transported one of the day’s many 911 callers to the near- swelling and compression bite marks to his right forearm, est hospital. As soon as the crew became available from EMT Mendonca stated he didn’t want an additional unit to the hospital, the dispatcher called them and dispatched a treat him. He could monitor and continue patient care 911 call for an injury at Brooklyn Avenue and Eastern while en route to the hospital and get himself checked Parkway. Little did the EMTs know that this next so- after turning patient care over to the hospital staff. called routine injury assignment would make a crucial While being treated at the hospital, a puncture wound impact on the life of the patient. to EMT Mendonca’s right forearm was noted. According The ambulance and crew arrived at the intersection of to the victim, since he had been struggling for 10 minutes Brooklyn Avenue and Eastern Parkway, only to find an prior to the arrival of his rescuers, he could have been adult male being attacked by a pit bull terrier, while a sec- killed if it wasn’t for the actions of the two EMTs. ond dog paced back and forth near the man. Several In recognition of their bravery and, indeed, putting bystanders who called 911 were watching the events their safety at risk, EMTs Dewey Mendonca and Garfield unfold from a safe distance and NYPD had not arrived at Smythe are recognized for their efforts with the Tracy the scene yet. Allen-Lee Medal.--MLR

24 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Chief John J. McElligott Medal/ FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award FIREFIGHTER BRIAN T. MITCHELL LADDER COMPANY 122 June 22, 2010, 1530 hours, Box 75-1273, 571 10th Street, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on March 8, 2005. Previously assigned to Engine 220. Cousin, FF Jessie Vitucci, is assigned to Ladder 118. Member of the FDNY Baseball Team. Recipient of the Liberty Mutual Fire Mark Award for 2010. Studied Physical Education at Long Island University/C.W. Post College. Resides on Staten Island with his wife, Laura.

here is no such thing as a regular tour for the New York his Halligan tool as an extension of his arm, he felt the tool hit City Fire Department. This reality was reinforced for what appeared to be a metal object. He followed the metal Tmembers of Ladder 122, including FF Brian T. object upward and felt a mattress. In unbearable heat, he man- Mitchell, on June 22, 2010, a day that started the first heat aged to get on his knees and search the hospital bed, finding a wave of the summer for the City, with temperatures well into 78-year-old female. the 90s. FF Mitchell quickly notified Captain Parella of his find- At 1530 hours, the Brooklyn Communications Office ings and location. Without waiting for assistance, the transmitted Box 1273, reporting a phone alarm for fire on 10th Firefighter lifted the victim from the mattress and placed her Street in the Park Slope section of the borough. Ladder 122-- on the floor. With fire, heat and smoke conditions becoming located only a block away on 11th Street--responded quickly. untenable due to the open basement door and still no protec- Captain Joseph Parella, covering the day tour, was advised by tion of a charged hose-line, he began the arduous task of the Brooklyn dispatchers that there were numerous calls removing the woman. reporting children trapped in the basement and they would be The victim’s gown and sheets that were pulled off the bed going to work. Captain Parella also was told that Engines 220 were getting hung up, delaying the woman’s desperately need- and 239 were both delayed, due to heavy traffic conditions. ed care. At this point, FF Mitchell was almost at the foyer On arrival, Captain Parella transmitted a 10-75 for a fire when he was met by Captain Parella and FF Paul Patras, the in the basement of a four-story brownstone attached on both extinguisher Firefighter. With great effort, the three rescuers sides. As members started disembarking the apparatus, FF were able to lift the woman slightly off the ground and remove Mitchell was summoned by a frantic civilian, who stated that her to safety. his bedridden mother was trapped on the parlor floor. As FF Once removed from the building, patient care was initiat- Mitchell began his size-up, he ed by Engine 220 members, noticed thick, billowing smoke who began lifesaving measures. from the basement windows. As The three members of the inside he ascended the brownstone team re-entered the fire building stairs, he was met with blinding, to search the immediate fire velvety smoke and a significant area and assist Engine 239 with heat condition. The Firefighter, fire extinguishment. with the irons, donned his per- The courageous actions of sonal protective equipment and FF Mitchell, who operated in entered the parlor-floor foyer. untenable conditions without Beginning his primary search, the protection of a charged he began crawling and felt a hose-line, directly resulted in a door jamb. He entered the room life being saved. FF Brian T. where he believed the trapped Mitchell has upheld the tradi- woman was reported to be. tions of both the FDNY and Keeping the son’s frantic Ladder 122. For his bravery at message in the back of his mind, Brooklyn Box 1273, he is FF Mitchell was met with an awarded the Chief John J. increasing amount of heat and McElligott Medal/FFs smoke to the point that he was Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award.-- working in zero visibility. Using FF Brian Mitchell, Ladder 122, checks his gear following his dra- RL matic rescue of a woman.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 25 Thomas F. Dougherty Medal

CAPTAIN KIERAN M. KILDUFF LADDER COMPANY 19

July 16, 2010, 1123 hours, Box 75-2704, 1253 Franklin Avenue, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on August 19, 1990. Previously assigned to Ladder 174 and Battalions 4 and 18. Father, Battalion Chief Patrick E. Kilduff, is retired from Battalion 47; brother, Lieutenant Patrick T. Kilduff, is assigned to Ladder 134; uncle, FF James Kilduff, is retired from Ladder 151; cousin, Lieutenant Michael Kilduff, is retired from Engine 264; and cousin, FF Brian Kilduff (now deceased), was retired from Engine 222. Member of the Holy Name and Emerald Societies. Holds a BS degree in Finance from Fordham University. Resides in Yonkers, NY, with his wife, Rebecca, and their children, Delia, Noah, Kieran and Hannah.

he day started as many do in the Bronx for the members advanced into the apartment to lead the search. He went to the of Ladder 19: Ready their gear, roll call, check the rig, right, down a long, narrow hallway, toward the rear of the Tplan the drill, maybe a quick workout if there’s time, then apartment. FF Seiter followed. FF Vilagos had moved into the out the door for BISP (Building Inspection Safety Program). apartment and then turned left. The members of Ladder 19, a battle-tested unit, are always As Captain Kilduff approached the fire, he could see it sharp; perhaps more so when Captain Kieran Kilduff is on duty. had burned through a bedroom door and now was blowing Ladder 19 was at the far end of their response area when into the hallway. In a tactical effort to control the hallway Box 2704, 1253 Franklin Avenue, came in at 1123 hours. As egress, Captain Kilduff ordered FF Seiter into a holding posi- the apparatus moved through traffic, the members listened to tion and then maneuvered past the fire. A seasoned fire the radio intently as the dispatcher barked, report of fire on the Officer, Captain Kilduff had read the building layout as he fourth floor; then moments later, second source, fill out the stepped off the apparatus. He knew from the outside vent alarm. The members anticipated a working fire. Firefighter’s radio report that he had to advance his search The 10-75 was transmitted. Captain Kilduff had been here team deep into the apartment, into that back bedroom. before; he knew the building--a big, five-story, fully occupied This aggressive and necessary action paid off. Captain multiple dwelling. Heavy, black smoke boiled violently up Kilduff pushed on and located the trapped occupant on the from the rear of the building. Panicked occupants poured into floor, unconscious. He immediately transmitted a signal 10-45. the street, fleeing the fire. At this point, FF Burgos made entry through the rear window Captain Kilduff led his forcible entry team into the build- and caught up with his Officer. Captain Kilduff instructed him ing. As occupants spilled into the street, they reported, children to control the bedroom door and vent as necessary in an effort trapped. Captain Kilduff got on the radio for a conditions to establish an area where they could protect the victim as the report. The radio response from Ladder 19’s outside vent fire advanced. Firefighter, FF Shaun Burgos, confirmed a victim showing at Captain Kilduff’s continued search located a second the rear window of the fire apartment. unconscious victim, a four-year-old boy. As fire conditions Within moments, they were at the door of the fire apart- continued to worsen, Captain Kilduff directed FF Burgos to ment, sizing up forcible entry remove the second victim via the options. On the irons was FF Adam rear window. The Captain hunkered Vilagos, Engine 50, and with the down with the unconscious adult extinguisher was FF Joe Seiter, victim. He predicted that the wait Engine 82. When the team forced the would not be long and was assured door, they were immediately driven of that when the members of Engine to the floor by a high heat condition, 82 began their attack on the fire, with thick, black smoke pushing allowing the rescuer to take the vic- from the occupied apartment. tim to a safe position. Captain Kilduff knew that such Without a charged hose-line, advanced fire conditions are truly Captain Kilduff led his unit past the unforgiving. Additionally, the rapidly developing fire--a fire that building size-up dictated a long, threatened to cut off the only egress. time-consuming stretch of the hose- His aggressive and selfless actions line. To Captain Kilduff, this meant directly resulted in the rescue of they would be pushing the limits, both unconscious occupants. For his working without water and a pro- heroism, Captain Kieran M. Kilduff tective hose-line for a significant today is presented with the Thomas period of time. With the evolving F. Dougherty Medal.--JDL fire directly ahead, Captain Kilduff Route taken by Captain Kilduff in his rescue of two uncon- scious victims.

26 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Albert S. Johnston Medal

FIREFIGHTER MATTHEW R. BLAND ENGINE COMPANY 96 (ASSIGNED), LADDER COMPANY 48 (DETAILED) May 1, 2010, 1235 hours, Box 75-2365, 889 Irvine Street, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on March 7, 2004. Member of the Holy Name Society and the Counseling Services Unit’s Big Brother Program. Holds a BS degree in Fire Science from the University of New Haven. Resides in Astoria, Queens.

ome people--who may not know any better--say that the rear of the apartment. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Crespin verbal- actions of the extinguisher Firefighter sometimes may ly notified the team that the fire was beginning to burn through Sseem unglamorous, but this function is vital to effective the door. However, FF Bland heard moaning coming from the and successful rescue operations. Additionally, as rear of the apartment. Even though a hand-line was not yet in Commissioner William Feehan (killed at the World Trade operation, he continued to search deeper into the apartment. Center on 9/11) once said, If you’re the can man, be the best The Firefighter’s dedication was quickly rewarded as he can man there is. This statement could not have been truer found a female victim wedged halfway in the bedroom door- when in the early-afternoon hours of May 1, 2010, a fire broke way. FF Bland immediately notified Lieutenant Crespin that out at 889 Irvine Street in the Bronx. he had found a 10-45. She was caught between the partially Working the extinguisher position in Ladder 48, da Pride opened doorway and a bedroom dresser. Because of the dress- of Hunt’s Point, that afternoon was FF Matthew R. Bland. At er’s location, the door could be opened only about 18 inches, 1235 hours, a call came into the firehouse for a reported fire making removal even more difficult. in a three-story, 25- by 60-foot, class three, two-family FF Bland was joined by FF Mongiello, who climbed over dwelling. Ladder 48, which arrived at the building in fewer both FF Bland and the victim to gain access into the bedroom. than three minutes, found fire and heavy, black smoke emit- Once inside, both members were able to free the now-uncon- ting from the third-floor front windows. scious victim. Still without benefit of a charged hose-line in As part of the inside team, FF Bland, along with place, FFs Bland and Mongiello moved the victim to the Lieutenant Richard Crespin and FF Thomas Mongiello, quick- stairs. With the assistance of other members, the victim was ly entered the building. After quickly forcing the interior door, taken down the narrow stairs to a stokes basket and EMS per- the members proceeded up the narrow, L-shaped stairs, where sonnel. FF Bland then returned to the third floor and contin- they were forced ued his duties. back by heavy fire In the after-action venting from the report, Battalion open door and mov- Chief Patrick ing into both the Hawkins, Battalion 3, stairs and hallway. FF wrote: FF Bland dis- Bland immediately played a high degree opened up the extin- of initiative...in guisher, which removing the victim. pushed the fire back His bravery surely toward the front of saved the victim from the apartment. This a darker fate. action allowed Therefore, in recogni- Lieutenant Crespin to tion of his selfless act, close the door to tem- the Fire Department is porarily contain the proud to honor fire. Firefighter Matthew With the extin- FF Matthew Bland is a hero during his off-duty hours, too. Here, he introduces Jack Lynch, R. Bland today with guisher now expend- 10 years old, to the benefits of personal protective equipment (PPE). The youngster is the son the Albert S. Johnston ed, FF Bland began to of Lieutenant Michael Lynch, Ladder 4, who was killed on 9/11. FF Bland has been paired Medal.--DJH with Jack through the FDNY partnership with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program for the search toward the past four years.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 27 Bella Stiefel Medal

FIREFIGHTER BRIAN K. O’KEEFE LADDER COMPANY 28

February 14, 2010, 0528 hours, Box 75-1615, 220 West 143rd Street, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on September 12, 2004. Father, Battalion Chief Kevin O’Keefe, is retired from Battalion 12 and brother, FF Danny O’Keefe, is assigned to Ladder 43. Member of the Emerald Society. Recipient of a unit citation. Holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from St. Thomas Aquinas College. Resides in West Haverstraw, NY, with his wife, Danielle, and their children, Kiersten and Brady.

CT911 is how the run came in--Box 1615, West 143rd apartment hallway, toward the highest heat levels and into the Street and Lenox Avenue. The time was 0528 hours immediate fire area. Uon February 14, St. Valentine’s Day, 2010. With a Under increasing heat and heavy smoke conditions, FF turnout in fewer than 30 seconds, the members of Ladder 28 O’Keefe moved to the right of the living room and encoun- and Engine 69 were out the door quickly. With relentless dili- tered a bed. Searching above, below and around it, he found gence, the on-duty Manhattan dispatcher interviewed the no one. Continuing his search, it was necessary to use the wall frantic caller and was able to update the responding units with as a point of reference due to the conditions confronted. a more accurate address of 200 West 143rd Street for a fire Knowing that time was an enemy and completing the search on the sixth floor. That pertinent information allowed the in the absence of a hose-line was quickly becoming difficult, chauffeur of Ladder 28 to make a hasty turn onto Powell if not impossible, FF O’Keefe crawled to the farthest and as Boulevard and quickly respond to the new location. of yet unsearched portion of the room, where he found a male The fire building was a 26-story, New York City housing victim lying prone with his head facing away from the entry project high-rise. Responding in fewer than four minutes, the door. forcible entry team of Ladder 28 ran up the “A” stairs to the The victim’s anatomical position made it extremely diffi- sixth floor, where they encountered a light haze of smoke. cult to remove him without raising both the rescuer’s and the After traversing the breezeway that separated the two isolat- victim’s profiles above the floor and exposing them to severe ed wings of the building, Lieutenant Raymond McCormack heat. FF O’Keefe struggled to remove the man and called out ordered the members to don their SCBAs and go on air. to the rest of the team that he had found a 10-45. FF Opening a second stairway door, the members were Constantine assisted in the victim’s removal. instantly enveloped in hot, dark-brown smoke. After transmit- Together, the two Firefighters crawled for a distance of ting the 10-75 to the Incident Commander (IC), Battalion approximately 60 feet to the relative safety of the stairwell. Chief John Newell, Battalion 16, Lieutenant McCormack, FF There, the man was transferred to Engine 80 for medical Brian O’Keefe, forcible entry, and FF Peter Constantine, with attention. FFs O’Keefe and Constantine then returned to the extinguisher, entered the hallway on their hands and knees assist in the extinguishment and overhaul of the fire apart- and located the fire in apart- ment. The victim, Louis ment 6M. Falcone, was transported to As this information was Harlem Hospital, where he radioed to the first two engine was admitted and treated for companies--Engines 69 and thermal burns and smoke 80, respectively--and the IC, inhalation. the forcible entry team split up Thanks to the tenacious to search the fire apartment. FF search, rescue and removal Constantine conducted a left- operations by FF Brian K. handed search of the bathroom O’Keefe, under arduous con- area, while Lieutenant ditions and prior to a protec- McCormack--with his thermal tive hose-line being in place, imaging camera--conducted a he is presented with the Bella right-handed search of the Stiefel Medal for bravery in kitchen area. FF O’Keefe the truest traditions of the crawled dead ahead, down the FF Brian O’Keefe (center) with the members of Ladder 28, following FDNY.--SM his rescue of an adult male.

28 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Vincent J. Kane Medal

FIREFIGHTER SHAUN A. BURGOS LADDER COMPANY 19 July 16, 2010, 1123 hours, Box 75-2704, 1253 Franklin Avenue, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on May 4, 2003. Member of the Hispanic Society. Served eight years--three years active and five years as a reserve--with the U.S. Navy. Studied Fire Science at John Jay College. Resides in Pine Bush, NY, with his wife, Marisol, and their children, Shaun, Jr., and Dylan.

t is commonplace for New York to suffer through oppres- ing from the engulfed front bedroom. sive heat waves during July. During these days, people With disregard for his safety, FF Burgos passed the fire Ialmost can feel the asphalt give way as they cross a street. and began a left-hand search pattern. As he began his search, These conditions are especially hellish for Firefighters as they Ladder 19’s Officer, Captain Kieran Kilduff, transmitted a 10- put on bunker gear, strap on their SCBA and grab tools before 45 signal for the rear bedroom. FF Burgos continued down the exposing themselves to even hotter conditions. This was the hallway and through the living room until he found Captain case for FF Shaun A. Burgos, Ladder 19, who was called into Kilduff with a semi-conscious victim in the corner bedroom. action for a fire at 1253 Franklin Avenue in the Bronx on July Rescuers and victim held their position in the rear bedroom, as 16, 2010. Engine 82 members were coming with a hose-line. FF Burgos Just before noon, Ladder 19 members, participating in the closed the door to prevent the fire from spreading and then Building Inspection Safety Program (BISP), were dispatched vented the room. to a reported fire on the fourth floor of a 75- by 150-foot, non- At this point, Captain Kilduff located another victim--a fireproof multiple dwelling. A 10-75 signal already had been small boy--who was not breathing, and so a second 10-45 sig- transmitted for smoke showing from the rear of the 37-unit nal was transmitted. The victim had to be evacuated immedi- apartment, along with reports of trapped occupants at rear ately and FF Burgos carried the small boy back down the hall- windows. way. Here, he again passed the uncontrolled fire, while the rest FF Burgos, working the outside vent position, was ordered of Ladder 19’s forcible entry team searched for other victims, to report on conditions at the rear of the tenement. This proved simultaneously holding back the fire with the extinguisher. difficult because he was required to move through a cellar FF Burgos carried the victim down to the street and turned alleyway and force two gates to get to this area. On arrival, he the child’s care over to other Firefighters who began CPR. He found heavy smoke emanating from the fourth floor, near the then returned to the apartment, which Engine 82 now con- intersection of exposures #3 and #4. He also found a victim, trolled, to continue to search for two other victims. This search frantically waving her arms through the child protective gate of proved negative. the corner room. In the report of this action, Captain Kilduff wrote: FF The Firefighter Burgos knowingly put transmitted this infor- his life in jeopardy mation to his Officer without the protection and then ascended the of a charged hose-line fire escape to aid the for the safety of others victim. Reaching the without the slightest top floor, he cleared the hesitation. His actions kitchen window and were expeditious and forced the protective in the highest tradi- gate. With this accom- tions of the Fire plished, he entered the Department. For these burning apartment and reasons, FDNY is turned left into the hall- proud to honor FF way. The hallway Shaun A. Burgos today already was on fire with with the Vincent J. flames lapping the ceil- Kane Medal.--DJH Ladder Company 19 operates at Bronx Box 33-2517 on July 7, 2004.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 29 Pulaski Association Medal

CAPTAIN JAMES F. ROGERS LADDER COMPANY 59

February 7, 2010, 0341 hours, Box 75-2986, 45 West Tremont Avenue, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on September 5, 1981. Previous assignments include Engine 76 and Ladders 22 and 34 as a Firefighter and Ladder 58 as a Lieutenant. Cousin, FF Tom Kennedy, is assigned to Engine 254, and broth- er-in-law, Lieutenant Jerry Obremski, is retired from Engine 156. Member of the Holy Name and Emerald Societies. Recipient of a Class A and two unit citations. Holds a BS degree in Criminal Justice from St. John’s University. Resides in Johnson, NY, with his wife, Lisa, and their children, Casey and Connor.

rom the earliest days in Proby School, instructors instill into the hallway. The Firefighters realized she wasn’t breath- in every Firefighter the instinctive clues that will guide ing and carried her to the lobby and administered CPR. Fa Firefighter regarding the possibility of an apartment Captain Rogers transmitted a 10-45. being occupied during a fire. Number one among these clues Once Captain Rogers was assured that Mrs. Nunez had is that when the door is forced open and the members find a been safely removed, he returned to search the apartment. Fire night chain on the door, someone is inside the apartment. was rolling out of the kitchen at the ceiling, toward the interi- When this chain is found, the rescue operation accelerates to or of the apartment. There was no hose-line in place and the another level. Absolutely nothing will deter the forcible entry apartment quickly would become untenable. Now operating team from searching that apartment. It was just such a situa- alone in the fire apartment, Captain Rogers crawled beneath tion that faced Captain James Rogers and the members of the advancing fire and made his way into the living room. Ladder 59. As the Captain searched in the blinding smoke, he came In the early-morning hours of February 7, 2010, Ladder upon a second victim, Fausto Florentino, Rosa Nunez’ hus- 59 responded first-due to 45 West Tremont Avenue for a report band, lying motionless on the floor. Captain Rogers transmit- of fire on the second floor. Immediately on arrival, Captain ted a 10-45 and attempted to drag Mr. Florentino to the front Rogers, commanding Officer of Ladder 59, knew he had a door. He grabbed the man by the arms and shoulder, but his job. Numerous occupants met him in the street, pointing fran- hands slipped right off. The Officer noted severe burns to the tically back at the building. Captain Rogers and his forcible victim’s upper body and arms, so he dragged Mr. Florentino entry team--FFs Paul Denver, forcible entry, and Nicholas back to the front door. Brisotti, extinguisher, sprinted to the second floor. Thick, As Captain Rogers neared the kitchen--which was directly black smoke was pushing from around the door frame of across from the front door--the extreme heat from the extend- apartment 2B. The Officer transmitted a 10-75 to Battalion ing fire was endangering their escape. He placed himself Chief Michael Woods, Battalion 19, between the fire roaring from the for a working fire. kitchen and Mr. Florentino to keep FFs Denver and Brisotti forced the him from further injury. door, while Captain Rogers held the Simultaneously, he called out to knob to keep it from springing open Captain Greg Lehr, covering in Engine and fire flashing up the stairs, endan- 43, who was waiting at the door for the gering occupants on the upper floors. engine to get the hose-line in place. Immediately after the door was Captain Lehr entered the apartment opened, Captain Rogers noted the and assisted Captain Rogers with final night chain on the door and told the removal to the hallway. Mr. Florentino forcible entry team that someone must was handed off to members in the hall- be inside. FF Denver broke the chain way and Captain Rogers re-entered the and the door opened partially. Fire then apartment to complete his primary flashed toward the Officer and his men. search of the fire apartment, which FF Brisotti operated his extinguisher to proved negative. push the fire back into the kitchen, Without question, it is only due to where the fire originated. the extraordinary efforts of Captain Captain Rogers pushed the door Rogers and the members of Ladder 59 open and moved a stroller that was that Fausto Florentino and Rosa blocking the door. Once inside the Nunez are alive today. For these rea- apartment, Captain Rogers saw the top sons, Captain James F. Rogers is pre- of a woman’s head. FFs Denver and The media interview Captain James Rogers, following sented with the Pulaski Association Brisotti crawled to the unconscious the heroic rescue of two victims by him and the mem- Medal.--CB woman, Rosa Nunez, and dragged her bers of Ladder 59.

30 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal

FIREFIGHTER ANTHONY R. CAVALIERI RESCUE COMPANY 5

December 31, 2010, 0346 hours, Box 75-1014, 150 Steuben Street, Staten Island

Appointed to the FDNY on November 12, 1989. Previously assigned to Ladder 104. Father, Lieutenant Vincent Cavalieri, is retired from Engine 154; brother, FF Vincent P. Cavalieri, is assigned to Ladder 105; and uncle, Lieutenant Vito CeLano, is retired from Ladder 119. Member of the Columbia Association and the Emerald Society. Recipient of the Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal. Resides in Staten Island with his wife, Dawn, and their daughter, Jennifer, and two sets of twins--Anthony, Nicholas, Robert and Paul.

rivate dwelling fires frequently have many alterations Rescue 5 chauffeur, FF Anthony Cavalieri, entered the and extensions--usually not apparent from outside--thus dwelling’s first floor to determine the extent of the fire and mon- Pincreasing the number of areas that have to be located itor conditions for the members going above. Simultaneously, and searched, challenging the expertise of Firefighters. Rescue 5’s outside team arrived with the portable ladder at the Seventy percent of all fire deaths occur in private dwellings window, where the family was last seen and began a portable and portable ladder rescues come to the fore. Another obstacle ladder rescue, assisted by Rescue 5’s inside team members, who on December 31, 2010, was that New York City still was dig- also arrived at the second-floor bedroom. ging out from one of the biggest blizzards in its history. Closing the bedroom door to give them refuge from the Rescue 5 and Engine 160 were dispatched for a phone impinging fire, the Rescue Firefighters began to remove the alarm, reporting a fire at 150 Steuben Street. Even though the family down the portable ladder. The last family member reported fire location was in proximity to their quarters, arrival being removed via portable ladder revealed that a relative was was hindered by a record snowfall and a nearly impassable icy still missing. Captain Murray quickly transmitted this informa- and hilly section of street. On arrival, Rescue 5 stayed on the tion by handie-talkie to the Incident Commander (IC). corner to allow first-due Engine 160 to enter the block first, as Subsequently, hearing that there was still a missing fami- well as leave room for the incoming ladder companies. ly member, FF Cavalieri began to ascend to the second floor, As Engine 160 entered the block, civilians were pointing to past the impinging fire on the stairway, without protection of a occupant Juan Arguello hanging from the second-floor window charged hose-line. He encountered high heat and heavy smoke of the fire building as smoke pushed out over his head. Captain upon reaching the second-floor landing. Ultimately, this high Peter Maglione, Engine 160, quickly transmitted the signal for heat condition forced him to crawl down the hallway, where he a working fire and requested that a portable ladder be brought discovered a door to a remaining bedroom. Realizing the to the front of the private dwelling to initiate a rescue. extent and severity of this fire and feeling pain through his per- Arriving on foot, Rescue 5’s inside team approached the sonal protective equipment (PPE), FF Cavalieri understood house and discovered that there were now three additional vic- that he would have only seconds to conduct a primary search. tims at the window. As a portable ladder was being brought on FF Cavalieri began to sweep the floor with his hands and foot by Rescue 5’s outside team, the inside team entered the came upon 68-year-old Luz Franco, who was unconscious and front door and began making their way through the interior of not breathing. She was between a bed and the dresser. The the private dwelling. There was a heavy heat and smoke con- Firefighter immediately transmitted his findings and location to dition on the first floor and the thermal imaging camera was the IC and began to remove the victim from the now-untenable needed to find the interior stairs to the second-floor landing. environment. As Engine 160 began its assault on the fire with As members of Rescue 5’s outside team struggled to get the initial hose-line, FF Cavalieri shielded the victim with his the portable ladder in place--overcoming own body and dragged the unconscious the icy and hilly terrain--the inside team and burned female down the stairs, past ascended the stairs and realized that the the fire area, where she was removed to dwelling featured an irregular layout. the street. Additionally, visible fire could be seen in Luz Franco was revived by EMS the living room and was beginning to roll members and admitted to Staten Island across the ceiling and up the open interi- University Hospital Burn Center with or stairs, which promoted high heat and second- and third-degree burns to her posed great peril to members attempting body. Thanks to FF Anthony Cavalieri’s to search above this first-floor fire. bravery, Ms. Franco has recovered from Assessing the risk and based on the her injuries and is alive today. For these confirmed life hazard, Rescue 5’s Captain reasons, he is presented with the The brothers Cavalieri--FF Vincent, Ladder 105, James Murray decided to make an attempt and FF Anthony, Rescue 2--flank their dad, Commissioner Edward Thompson to reach the second-floor bedrooms. Lieutenant Vincent Cavalieri, retired from Medal.--PWB Engine 154.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 31 Columbia Association Medal

CAPTAIN CHARLES A. MASTANDREA DIVISION 6 (ASSIGNED) LADDER COMPANY 29 (COVERING) September 10, 2010, 1500 hours, Box 22-2168, 404 East 140th Street, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on January 26, 1997. Previously assigned to Engines 307 and 266 and Ladder 162. Holds a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from New York Institute of Technology and attended Adelphi University, studying for an MBA. Resides in Franklin Square, Long Island, with his wife, Gina, and their daugh- ters, Brianna, Caitlin and Grace.

he call came over: Bronx phone alarm for Box 2168, forcing the door, he scanned the room with the thermal imag- reporting a fire on the first floor of the address, 404 ing camera and saw a person hanging out the window. He TEast 140th Street. Ladder 29 responded second-due. looked like he was getting ready to jump. While responding, members began to see heavy, black smoke, The Captain grabbed the civilian and pulled him back in visible from a few blocks away. Engine 83 arrived first and the window. He radioed Command that he had the victim and gave the 10-75 for a fire in a three-story multiple dwelling. was going to remove him through the interior. As the rescuer When Ladder 29 arrived, Captain Charles Mastandrea started to pull the civilian toward the stairway, the man began and the rest of the inside team--FFs Jose Rodriguez (Engine to panic. He was coughing and stating that he could not 46) and Paul Cockerill--saw heavy fire venting out two win- breathe and needed air. With the possibility of the victim dows on the first floor and two windows on the second floor. going into cardiac arrest while being taken down the three Before the line was in place, Captain Mastandrea and the flights of stairs in heavy smoke conditions, Captain inside team attempted to crawl into the hallway, only to find Mastandrea decided a better option was removal by the win- the path to the staircase blocked by heavy fire. dow. He radioed Command that he needed a ladder in the rear. At this time, Battalion Chief Thomas Wilkinson, Ladder 29’s outside vent Firefighter, FF John Finnerty, Battalion 14, arrived and transmitted a second alarm. Chief took a 24-foot extension ladder by himself through exposure #2 Wilkinson then notified Ladder 29 that there were reports of to the back of the fire building and extended it to the window. someone trapped on the third floor rear. Engine 83 had The victim was held at the window until the portable ladder stretched a 13/4-inch line to the front stoop and members were was in position. The victim then was passed off to FF Finnerty. calling for water. Ladder 29 knew time was critical if they Captain Mastandrea’s aggressive actions were directly were going to get to the responsible for the safe trapped person. removal of the victim. As soon as the line was Going above an uncon- charged and Engine 83 hit the trolled fire in an illegal fire in the hallway, Ladder occupancy, he placed him- 29’s Officer and inside team self in danger. His actions went up the stairs. At this were in the most profes- point, Ladder 29’s roof sional manner that ensured Firefighter, FF James the victim was removed Donovan, gave a report that from the immediately dan- there was someone hanging gerous to life and health out the third-floor window, (IDLH) atmosphere in the about to jump. FF Donovan shortest amount of time. He began setting up the lifesav- brings great pride to the ing rope and notified his Officers and members of Officer of a possible rescue. Engine 83 and Ladder 29. The third floor consisted In recognition of his hero- of numerous locked single- ics, the City of New York room occupancies (SROs) and the FDNY present and visibility was very limit- Captain Charles A. ed due to the smoke. After Mastandrea with the Captain Mastandrea forced Columbia Association one door, he proceeded to Medal.--TW the next room, which had Depiction of the fire building and route taken by Captain Charles Mastandrea three heavy locks on it. After to rescue a victim.

32 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Susan Wagner Medal

LIEUTENANT PATRICK E. MCNIFF BATTALION 12 (ASSIGNED) LADDER COMPANY 25 (DETAILED) February 19, 2010, 1050 hours, Box 75-1166, 225 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on July 14, 1996. Now assigned to Ladder 25. Previously assigned to Ladder 47. Uncle, FF Hughie Flynn (now deceased), was retired from Ladder 61. Member of the Emerald Society. Resides in Hawthorne, NY, with his wife, Maureen, and their children, Emily, Elizabeth, Margaret and Kaitlyn.

n the morning of Friday, February 19, 2010, Ladder 25, Moritz and Yuskevich began removing debris from the The Pride of the Westside, received a telephone alarm, entrance hall to gain access to the fire, which was in the Oreporting a fire on the second floor of a multiple kitchen. Conditions deteriorated as members were delayed dwelling. Lieutenant Patrick McNiff was in command of while removing this debris. The fire was spreading into the Ladder 25 on this day tour and listening for additional informa- hallway and an attempt to contain the fire was tried by Ladder tion regarding the fire apartment as the truck responded 25’s outside vent Firefighter, who was using a water extin- through the streets. guisher to contain the fire from the window. On arrival at 225 West 86th Street, the size-up revealed a Lieutenant McNiff passed the fire and continued his massive, 14-story, Class 2, 200- by 300-foot, O-shaped build- search, crawling along in the smoke. Feeling his way in the ing that contained more than 200 apartments. Lieutenant debris, the Officer discovered an unconscious victim, approxi- McNiff, along with his inside team--FFs Peter Yuskevich with mately 24 feet into the apartment, slumped over in the bath- the irons and Matthew Moritz with the extinguisher--entered room. The victim was 75-year-old Sondra Gross. She was the courtyard of the building. When they looked up, they saw unconscious and appeared to not be breathing. Lieutenant fire venting from a third-floor window. McNiff radioed a 10-45 to Chief Pellegrinelli. Simultaneously, Lieutenant McNiff directed his chauffeur to transmit a 10- FF Moritz went to the apartment door to direct Engine 74 to 75 to the dispatcher. FF Yuskevich, who was familiar with this bring their hose-line to the fire location. building, advised Lieutenant McNiff that the service stair with Lieutenant McNiff began the arduous task of dragging the a standpipe could be accessed only through the cellar because victim over the piles of debris toward the door. Strewn through- this was an interconnected building. The members proceeded out, the debris was two feet high and made the unconscious to the cellar through maze-like conditions and came to the base woman’s removal very difficult. Acting as a shield, the rescuer of service stair #6. The Officer radioed this critical information positioned himself between the victim and the fire, while pass- to Engine 74 to prevent any delay of the hose-line being placed ing the uncontrolled, intense fire coming from the kitchen. FF into position. Moritz was using his depleted extinguisher to hold the fire back. After ascending the stairs to the third floor, Lieutenant Lieutenant McNiff dragged the woman about 20 feet when he McNiff identified the fire apartment as 111B, evidenced from was met by FF Yuskevich, who assisted him in removing the vic- the smoke staining and heat felt from the apartment’s service tim out of the apartment. They handed her off to the members of entrance door. He reported this information to Battalion Chief Engine 40, who began medical treatment on the injured woman. John Pellegrinelli, Battalion 11. Lieutenant McNiff then returned Lieutenant McNiff and the two back to the apartment to continue the Firefighters masked up and forced search for additional victims. The the door open. They were met by search proved negative. thick, black smoke and a high heat Lieutenant McNiff put himself condition. They began crawling at risk when he passed an intense into the apartment without the ben- fire condition twice in order to efit of a charged hose-line to begin effect the rescue of an unconscious a search. elderly woman. This task was The fire apartment was filled made even more difficult due to with excessive amounts of debris, the large amount of debris, which hampered and delayed their Collyers’ mansion-like conditions search for trapped victims. and operating without benefit of a Lieutenant McNiff again notified charged hose-line. To recognize the Chief of the difficulty in locat- his bravery, Lieutenant Patrick E. ing the fire due to the Collyers’ McNiff is presented with the Susan mansion-like conditions. FFs Lieutenant Patrick McNiff and Ladder 25 Firefighters, following Wagner Medal.--AP the Lieutenant’s grab. photo by Michael Schwartz, New York Daily News

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 33 Steuben Association Medal

FIREFIGHTER CHRISTIAN S. NIELSEN LADDER COMPANY 157

February 25, 2010, 2047 hours, Box 75-3737, 3202 Avenue D, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on May 5, 2002. Father, Fire Marshal Gareth Nielsen, is retired and brother, FF Jonathan Nielsen, is assigned to Ladder 103. Recipient of the Susan Wagner Medal in 2009. Holds a BS degree in Business Management from SUNY at Buffalo. Resides in Brooklyn, with his wife, Susan, and their sons, Eric and Matthew.

s New York City was being blanketed by the blizzard apartment door. This door had heavy smoke pushing from all of 2010 with up to 18 inches of snow, the City was sides and discoloration on the top half was noticeable. With Alooking more like a winter wonderland as opposed to a every strike used to open the apartment door, more smoke concrete jungle. While children were sledding in Central Park poured into the hallway, making visibility poor. As the door and plows were working desperately to clean the streets, began to buckle open, flames began to escape from the top of FDNY members were upholding their responsibility to protect the door. life and property. As members entered the apartment, they were immediate- The February 25th night tour began with a computer mes- ly pushed to the floor by a tremendous amount of heat. They sage, warning all units in the field of the severe and hazardous found themselves amid mounds of debris. As FF Nielsen weather conditions. For many, the snow is whimsical and mag- aggressively tried to move deeper into the fire apartment, he ical, but to Firefighters, snow makes their job much more dan- passed furniture to Lieutenant Spadaro and FF Marchese, gerous. These conditions proved no match for the members of clearing the entrance. Simultaneously, fire lapped out from the Ladder 157. kitchen, setting a bookshelf on fire across the hall. Climbing At 2047 hours, the Brooklyn Communications Office over debris piles and passing a wall of fire, FF Nielsen made received a phone alarm, stating there was a fire at 3202 Avenue D, his way to the back of the apartment, sweeping the floor with in the Flatbush section of the borough. Box 3737 was transmitted his hands until he felt a television console. and Ladder 157 acknowledged and responded. On their arrival, Continuing to search the area around and behind the con- members were met with frantic civilians, screaming that there was sole, he felt what appeared to be a hand. FF Nielsen radioed his a fire on the fourth floor of a four-story multiple dwelling. findings and transmitted a 10-45 for a fire victim. As he began As the inside team of Lieutenant Victor Spadaro and FFs removing the victim, he noticed that the person--wrapped in a Christian S. Nielsen with the irons and Michael Marchese with comforter--was wedged between the wall and console. With heat the extinguisher ascended the stairs to the top floor, they were conditions becoming unbearable and visibility lost at the apart- met by additional occupants, stating that there were a husband ment door, the Firefighter continued his valiant effort, removing and wife trapped in the apartment. As Lieutenant Spadaro the victim out of harm’s way. FF Marchese assisted by using looked through the shaft way window on the second floor, he webbing to help with the removal and held the fire at bay with could see fire out two windows in the rear and snow being the extinguisher. Once in the hallway, FF Nielsen picked the vic- blown by the 50-mile-per-hour winds. tim up and carried the man to the street, handing him over to The Officer told his chauf- EMS personnel in the lobby. feur to transmit a 10-75 for a FF Nielsen operated under working structural fire. The high heat, zero visibility and inside team knew this was with no protection from a going to be a difficult fire and charged hose-line. These poor members would have to rely on conditions were exacerbated their training and make an with extreme weather, wind aggressive attack. and massive amounts of debris. As the three members He put himself in harm’s way arrived on the smoky fourth to save a life. The bravery of FF floor, they donned their person- Christian S. Nielsen is recog- al protective equipment (PPE) nized with the Steuben and began forcing the fire FF Christian Nielsen is flanked by his brother, FF Jonathan, assigned to Association Medal.--RL Ladder 103, and father, FM Gareth, now retired.

34 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Chief James Scullion Medal

EMS LIEUTENANT LUIS F. CORRALES STATION 10 September 8, 2010, IND station, subway platform at 53rd Street and Lexington Avenue, Manhattan

Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on April 9, 1990. Previously assigned to Stations 8 and 10. Recipient of numerous citations/awards. Holds an associates degree in Applied Science from LaGuardia Community College. Resides in Forest Hills, Queens, and is the father of two sons, Brandon and Bryan.

requently, it is said that we never know what a day the unconscious man back onto the platform, the whole may bring to us. September 8, 2010, started just time being prompted by the gathered crowd to hurry. Flike any other day for EMS Lieutenant Luis With the help of other riders, the victim, Lieutenant Corrales. Off-duty, he woke up early and got ready for Corrales and the Good Samaritan made it back onto the his doctor’s appointment. His intended destination platform and not a moment too soon. Before the rescuers involved taking the E train for the usual New York City were even able to stand up, there was the familiar rush subway ride. At 1000 hours, Lieutenant Corrales of air from a train pulling into the station. descended into the subway and directly into a situation Away from imminent danger, Lieutenant Corrales that ended up as anything but typical and, ultimately, immediately began patient assessment. The rescued man made him a hero. still was presenting with signs of an altered mental sta- As he stepped onto the platform at 53rd Street and tus, but he was starting to move around. As the patient’s Lexington Avenue, he heard a woman scream. status slowly improved, Lieutenant Corrales was able to Lieutenant Corrales looked in the direction the woman ascertain that the man was a diabetic and in need of his was facing and what he saw was a man wobble and then medication. By this time, an ALS ambulance crew had fall, head-first, onto the subway tracks. Without a arrived on the scene and was able to take over the moment to waste, Lieutenant Corrales ran to where the patient’s care. The victim was transported to New York man had fallen and jumped onto the tracks to render Hospital in stable condition. assistance. Lieutenant Corrales locat- As a trained rescuer with ed his hastily discarded bag on more than 20 years of experi- the platform and continued on ence in the busiest EMS system to his doctor’s appointment in the world, the Lieutenant (which needed to be resched- immediately recognized the uled). He said, I’ve been in grim reality of the situation. EMS for 20 years and to see The man--of large stature--was something like this, as it hap- unconscious, with obvious pens, is rare. You’re there in signs of respiratory distress. A the thick of it and don’t have bystander jumped off the plat- the resources you’d have while form to help Lieutenant on duty. But in the end, it’s a Corrales move the victim. good feeling. With the constant noise of a That good feeling contin- multi-level subway station, it ues as Lieutenant Luis was next to impossible to Corrales deservedly is present- determine on what track a ed with the Chief James speeding train would appear Heroics are nothing new for Lieutenant Luis Corrales. In this Scullion Medal for his heroic next. Lieutenant Corrales and photo, he had just received a commendation from Mayor actions.--OP Michael Bloomberg for helping the victims at the Miracle on the the bystander struggled to get Hudson incident on January 15, 2009.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 35 Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal

LIEUTENANT KEVIN P. HAYES LADDER COMPANY 3

March 19, 2010, 1124 hours, Box 75-0526, 12 East 12th Street, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on June 15, 1990. Previously assigned to Engine 259 and Ladders 4 and 28. Member of the Emerald Society and the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Recipient of a unit citation. Currently attending Westchester Community College, pursuing a degree in Nursing. Resides in Mahopac, NY, and is the father of 10-year-old Nicholas.

ne of the first things that any Firefighter learns is to Firefighter, who had assumed control of the extinguisher, had expect the unexpected. And so, when the members of gained entry into the fire apartment. After the door was forced ORecon (as Ladder 3 is affectionately known) were open and the extinguisher was put into operation (the water sup- drilling in a vacant NYU building undergoing major alter- ply lasted only for a minute), Lieutenant Hayes swung into ations, the unexpected happened. They were dispatched to a action. With fire blowing out of the unenclosed kitchen, the fire directly across the street and immediately responded. Lieutenant proceeded past the blaze and headed through the liv- Led by Lieutenant Kevin Hayes, the company hurried ing room toward the rear bedroom, approximately 20 feet away. across the street to a 12-story, 60- by 100-foot commercial loft After opening the bedroom door, Lieutenant Hayes locat- building that previously had been converted to luxury residen- ed a large-bodied, unconscious, 41-year-old male behind it. tial apartments. Reaching the building, the members were met Although the water extinguisher had been emptied, fire was by the building superintendent, who reported smoke at the base extending, visibility was zero due to the smoke and no hose- of the freight elevator shaft, as well as on the top floor. line was in place, Lieutenant Hayes persevered. His only Additionally, a passerby noted that smoke was issuing from a thought was to remove the man from the danger area. window on the seventh floor. To accomplish this task, Lieutenant Hayes had to drag the Lieutenant Hayes, along with his forcible entry team of victim past the fire area. Summoning the assistance of the extin- FFs Brian Brady with the irons and Gerry Imparato with the guisher Firefighter, the man was brought to the public hallway extinguisher, proceeded into the fire building. Ironically, where it was determined that he had no respirations and no forcible entry was the drill topic that Lieutenant Hayes--only pulse. After initiating CPR, the rescuers continued attending to minutes before--had been discussing. The Officer instructed FF the victim until relieved by members of Engine 33 and Squad Imparato to remain at the elevator until the fire floor had been 18. Lieutenant Hayes then returned to the fire apartment to con- confirmed and proceeded with FF Brady up to the seventh tinue his supervision of search and overhaul operations. floor. On arrival, they were met by a tenant who reported the Expect the unexpected. Lieutenant Hayes had no idea how occupant of the fire apartment had a history of drug abuse and his day would progress when he started his company drill. most likely was at home. Clearly, he did not know Inasmuch as smoke he would be involved in now was pushing from the the rescue of another per- apartment door, Lieutenant son. He acted decisively, Hayes notified Battalion bravely and without the Chief Michael Grogan, protection of a hose-line. Battalion 7, that there was a Although the victim, suf- working fire in progress. fering from cardiac arrest, Because of the type of subsequently passed away building and its occupancy, at the hospital, this in no the 10-77 signal subse- way diminishes the gal- quently was transmitted, lant effort put forth by one indicating a fire in a high- of New York’s Bravest. rise residential building, For his unselfish action, thus summoning additional the Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz firefighting resources. Medal is proudly awarded By this time, approxi- to Recon’s Lieutenant mately five minutes had Kevin P. Hayes.--BDG elapsed since the initial alarm and Lieutenant Hayes and his irons Ladder 3 operates at Manhattan Box 22-0586, an explosion at 133 West 19th Street, April 25, 2002.

36 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal LIEUTENANT JAMES P. KELLY ENGINE COMPANY 245

August 27, 2010, 0238 hours, Box 22-3545, 2686 Colby Court, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on July 5, 1992. Father, Captain George E. Kelly, is retired from Ladder 153 and broth- er, Lieutenant George M. Kelly, is assigned to Engine 277. Member of the Emerald and Holy Name Societies. Attended SUNY at Cortland, studying economics. He resides in Marine Park, Brooklyn, with his wife, Regina, and their two-year-old son, James.

ngine 245 responded to a reported structural fire at burning in the cockloft. Fearing the developing fire in the 2686 Colby Avenue, Brooklyn, on August 27, 2010, at cockloft might prevent the members from completing the E0238 hours. Arriving in a little more than three minutes, search of the apartment and locating the remaining occupant, Lieutenant James P. Kelly observed heavy fire and thick, Lieutenant Kelly went past the operating hose-line to the rear black smoke from the top-floor windows of the six-story, 200- bedroom, where he located the third occupant of the apartment. by 50-foot, non-fireproof, H-type building. Lieutenant Kelly Lieutenant Kelly found the 80-year-old victim, Eugene transmitted the 10-75 and made his way to the fire apartment. Galperin, face-down in the deepest corner of the room. While his company was engaged in the 13-length stretch Lieutenant Kelly dragged the victim through the apartment to up the single, unenclosed stair, Lieutenant Kelly received the public hall, where he was assisted by members of Ladder reports that three elderly occupants were still inside the apart- 161. Mr. Galperin was removed to a lower floor, where mem- ment. As the hose-line reached the fire apartment, FF John bers of Engine 318 performed CPR. Xuereb, Ladder 161’s outside vent Firefighter, reported that he Mr. Galperin was successfully resuscitated that morning and believed the fire had entered the cockloft. Simultaneously, FF required several weeks of hospitalization and recuperative care. Nicholas Shelse, Ladder 161’s irons Firefighter, transmitted a He did not succumb to his injuries. Thankfully, in fact, all three 10-45 for the first occupant. victims of this tragic fire recovered. As the For his fire attack courage and began, determination Lieutenant in the face of Edward a rapidly Gonzalez, expanding Ladder 161, fire, while reported a putting him- second 10-45. self at risk, Engine 245 Lieutenant acted quickly James P. to reposition Kelly is pre- the line to sented with support the the rescue of the Uniformed two victims. Fire Officers Though the Association visible fire Medal.--CF was darken- ing down, the high heat and smoke persist- ed, indicating the fire, indeed, was Lieutenant James Kelly (back row, third from left) with fellow rescuers from Engine 245.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 37 Edith B. Goldman Medal

FIREFIGHTER ROBERT J. MOORE LADDER COMPANY 167 (OFF-DUTY)

August 9, 2010, 0930 hours, Box 75-6169, 211-39 45th Drive, Flushing, Queens

Appointed to the FDNY on July 1, 2008. Now assigned to Engine 316. Wife, Paramedic Paula Moore, is assigned to Station 49, and uncle, Paramedic Will Silvestry, is assigned to the EMS Bureau of Training. Recipient of a citation in 2009, the 2010 Daily News Hero of the Month, 2010 Citation of Honor from the Queens borough president and a 2010 award from Firefighter Quarterly magazine. A trained Paramedic, he is working toward a Nursing degree at Excelsior College. Resides in Bayside, Queens, with his wife, Paula.

hen on-duty, New York City Firefighters do anything the area and saw an eight-foot portable ladder located on the they can to help people in need. The same is true side of the garage in the rear. He placed the ladder directly Wwhen Firefighters are off-duty. This was the situation under the trapped teenager and his dog and instructed him to FF Robert J. Moore, Ladder 167, faced on August 9, 2010. remain calm. At 0930 hours, FF Moore was off-duty and preparing to The ladder was five feet short of the windowsill and FF leave the gym after working out when he noticed a frantic Moore realized that this would be a difficult and challenging employee trying to call 911. He asked the woman what was rescue. As he ascended the ladder, he realized that he would wrong and she told him that a house was on fire around the have to stand on the top rung in order to reach the windowsill, corner. a dangerous procedure. As he reached the top rung, FF Moore FF Moore left the gym, turned the corner and saw heavy, was able to grasp the aluminum siding below the window and black smoke coming from a two-story private dwelling, instructed the trapped teenager to do exactly what he said or halfway down the block at 211-39 45th Drive. they both would fall. Simultaneously, FF Moore’s fellow Firefighters at Ladder 167 FF Moore had the teenager pass him the dog, which he were responding to the Box and receiving reports of a fire with quickly lowered to the ground. He then went back up the lad- people trapped. der to remove the teenager. As he was re-climbing the ladder, When FF Moore reached the address, he was met with FF Moore saw an awning just to the right. He thought he could heavy fire and thick, black smoke pushing from the main lean to the right and use the awning to brace their fall if the entrance and all three windows on the first floor of the house. ladder became unstable. The rescuer told the victim to step In front of the house were a man and his 17-year-old son, who down onto his shoulders as he guided him down with one were burned and covered in soot. They told the Firefighter that hand and held onto the windowsill with the other hand. a child and his dog were trapped in the house. The man and his FF Moore carried the victim down three rungs on his son were the father and brother of the trapped teenager. shoulders and then he repositioned the teenager between him- Immediately and without regard for his personal safety, self and the building to provide a safer descent. Once they FF Moore--who did not have any personal protective equip- were on the ground, FF Moore, a trained Paramedic, realized ment (PPE) or tools--began to make his way down the narrow that the victim was having difficulty breathing and had suf- driveway that led to the rear of the house. He had to pass fered burns to his back and arms. He assisted the teenager to through the radiant heat and the front of the building heavy smoke coming from the where the companies on- fire building and climb over a scene were beginning to fight parked car. As FF Moore was the fire. He grabbed the CFR attempting to force entry into bag off Ladder 167’s appara- the house, he heard cries for tus and gave the victim oxy- help coming from the rear of gen and began treatment for the house. his burns. The victim’s care As he turned the exposure eventually was turned over to #2/3 corner, FF Moore saw a EMS personnel. 15-year-old teenager at the Thanks to the quick second-floor window, holding actions, bravery and persever- his dog and threatening to ance of FF Robert J. Moore, jump because he was burning. the victim survived. For his The Firefighter assessed the FF Robert Moore is reunited with 15-year-old Roy Nacpil. FF Moore was actions while off-duty, he is situation and realized that honored as the Hero of the Month by the Daily News for rescuing the officially recognized by the there was potential for the youngster. Attending the ceremonies were Commissioner Salvatore J. FDNY with the Edith B. room to light up. He surveyed Cassano, Chief of Department Edward S. Kilduff and Daily News CEO Goldman Medal.--NG Bill Holiber.

38 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 American Legion Fire Dept. Post 930/ Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Medal FIREFIGHTER NICHOLAS S. MARCHESE LADDER COMPANY 58

September 15, 2010, 1815 hours, Box 22-3070, 418 Bronx Park Avenue, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on October 28, 2001. Previously assigned to Tower Ladder 7. Holds an Associates Degree in Hotel/Restaurant Management from Nassau Community College. Resides in Babylon, Long Island, with his wife, Jenna, and their daughters, Olivia and Mia.

he night tour had barely started on the evening of heard FF Steven V. Troche, Ladder 58, with the irons, calling September 15, 2010, but FF Nicholas S. Marchese and for assistance with the two 10-45s he had located. Finding FF Tthe members of Ladder 58 and Engine 45 soon found Troche and the victim in the jet-black smoke, FF Marchese themselves in grave danger at a fire that already was starting helped him lift and carry 20-year-old Tashauna Staples to safe- to grow. At 1815 hours, the alarm sounded for a building fire ty. FF Marchese knew that they wouldn’t be able to remove at 418 Bronx Park Avenue. With their usual alacrity, the mem- her through the piles of debris to the rear, so their only choice bers donned their turnout gear and were swiftly on the way. FF was to make their way back down the narrow, heated, smoky Marchese was assigned the position of outside vent Firefighter hallway to the stairs. (Her two-year-old child, the second 10- and he surveyed the fire building as the rig pulled in front of 45, was removed by FF Peter Tynan, Engine 45.) the two-story row frame. As they approached the stairs, the two Firefighters had to The dispatcher reported that there were people trapped in maneuver past the members of Engine 45, who were position- the basement and two severely burned civilians already had ing the hand-line to extinguish the blaze. The normally ardu- self-evacuated by the time units arrived. Realizing that his best ous task of removing an adult up a flight of stairs was made entry to the basement was from the rear, FF Marchese entered harder by the confined area and the heat and smoke surround- the building to the right and made his way out the back door. ing them. As the cool outside air let the rescuers know they’d Entering the yard, he was faced with a massive pile of reached safety, they were grateful that EMS personnel were debris and a stockade fence, blocking his way to the fire build- there to treat the victim and simultaneously give the ing. Climbing over the garbage, the Firefighter broke his way Firefighters a chance to catch their breath. through the fence, only to find more junk on the other side. The fire, which went to a second alarm, made its way into With great difficulty, FF Marchese was able to make his way the cockloft, but other Firefighters were there to contain it. FFs to the rear door. He was able to force it and was met with a Marchese and Troche had done their best to give Tashauna high heat and heavy smoke condition. Staples another chance at life. Her injuries were so severe that Donning the facepiece to his mask, FF Marchese entered she required a lengthy stay at Jacobi Hospital. Were it not for the basement, only to find a the valiant efforts the res- bicycle and more debris cuers put forth, she surely still blocking his way. Once would have perished that past this, he found a piece night. of plywood nailed in place For his bravery and and blocking the hallway. determination in entering After he removed that, he the fire area to find the vic- was able to make his way tim and his tremendous down the hall. efforts in her removal under The ceiling in the hall- adverse conditions, the way was only six feet high New York City Fire and 30 inches wide and the Department is proud to heat became more oppres- award the American Legion sive as he advanced. FF Fire Department Post Marchese located the rear- 930/Mark M. Wohlfeld most bedroom and began to Memorial Medal to FF search for victims when he Ladder 58 operated at Bronx Box 22-2372, 978 Southern Boulevard/East 163rd Nicholas S. Marchese.--JT Street, October 28, 2009. photo by Bill Tompkins

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 39 Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal FIREFIGHTER MATTHEW R. LOPEZ LADDER COMPANY 16 (ASSIGNED) LADDER COMPANY 43 (DETAILED) July 28, 2010, 1223 hours, Box 1303, East River in the vicinity of East 106th Street/FDR Drive, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on September 25, 2005. Member of the Holy Name Society. Recipient of three unit cita- tions. Holds a BA degree in Psychology from Loyola College (Maryland). Resides in Glendale, Queens.

ew York City has more miles of waterfront than Seattle, caught in a swirling, downward current, pulling them under the San Francisco, Chicago and Portland combined, pier. Before entering the water, the rescuer was hooked up to a Nprompting Mayor Michael Bloomberg to refer to the tether line and received instruction from the company Officer. waterfront as New York City’s sixth borough. Ultimately, pro- In one giant stride, FF Lopez jumped from the concrete barrier tecting this sixth borough are the highly trained and equipped of the FDR Drive, descending 20 feet into the East River. Once members of FDNY’s Water Rescue Units, as well as the mem- in the water, FF Lopez signaled to his Officer that he was okay bers of the Marine Division and all Rescue and Squad and proceeded in the direction of the victim, who was being Companies. dragged under the water beneath the fishing pier. According to the Department’s response matrix, Ladder 43 Swimming to the victim, FF Lopez had to fight a tremen- was designated the Water Rescue Unit for an alarm of a man in dous current and swirling undertow. Reaching the victim, he the water, in the vicinity of East 106th Street and the FDR noticed the man now was floundering under the water and Drive on July 28, 2010, at 1223 hours. While en route, addi- drowning, unable to stay afloat. FF Lopez approached the vic- tional information was received over the Department radio that tim from behind and proceeded to hold onto him, positioning two civilians were in the water at the same location. his head above the water. In a moment of inspiration, FF Lopez FF Matthew R. Lopez, Ladder 16, detailed for the tour to was able to summon his remaining strength and take control of Ladder 43, who was assigned the secondary water rescue the victim’s body by locking his arms around the victim’s swimmer at roll call, started removing his bunker gear in prepa- chest, using the Fire Department-issued rescue torpedo. ration to don his cold water exposure suit upon exiting the After securing the victim to this flotation device, FF Lopez, apparatus. He knew immediately that this would be a difficult now suffering from severe fatigue and exhaustion, started the rescue attempt. The East River is known for tidal currents that difficult task of swimming back to the shoreline of the FDR run in several different directions at various speeds. Drive, all the while holding the victim’s head above the water. Additionally, multiple victims meant that FF Lopez would Arriving at the shoreline, FF Lopez was met by FDNY members have to act without the comfort of a back-up rescue swimmer. who immediately set up a 20-foot hook ladder, secured with He prepared himself mentally to act alone during this danger- utility ropes. This facilitated the safe removal of both victim and ous water rescue. rescuer from the treacherous waters of the East River. Arriving As Ladder 43 entered the FDR Drive and approached the on land safely, a CFR-D Engine Company began to administer fishing pier, it was apparent that there were as many as three oxygen to the victim and patient care was successfully trans- victims in the water. ferred to EMS personnel. Ladder 43’s chauffeur Proper training and pulled the apparatus on the equipment, put in the hands shoulder of the FDR, at the of a dedicated and physical- base of the fishing pier, as a ly fit member of this barefoot FF Lopez immedi- Department, resulted in sav- ately exited the apparatus ing this near-drowning vic- to don his cold water expo- tim. There is no question that sure suit. After doing this, FF Matthew Lopez’ knowl- he climbed over a dividing edge of water rescue proce- wall and ran approximately dures, coupled with his deci- 50 yards to the location of sive, swift and unhesitating the victims in the water off action, saved the life of this the fishing pier. man. He is honored with the Sizing up the situation, Arthur J. Laufer Memorial FF Lopez quickly realized Medal.--PWB that the three victims were Diagram depicts the water rescue performed by FF Matthew Lopez.

40 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal FIREFIGHTER GREGORY HANSEN LADDER COMPANY 153

December 10, 2010, 2214 hours, Box 22-3251, 2953 Avenue W, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on January 27, 2002. Father, Captain Greg Hansen, is retired from Ladder 87. Member of the Emerald Society and the Viking Association. Studied ecology at SUNY at Oneonta and the College of Staten Island. Resides in Staten Island with his wife, America. They are expecting their first child in July. n the evening of December 10, 2010, Ladder 153 too, were met with high heat and dense smoke conditions. received a phone alarm for a reported fire on the fourth Collyers’ mansion-type conditions throughout the apartment Ofloor of a seven-story, fireproof multiple dwelling. The greatly hindered all primary searches of the fire floor. address was 2953 Avenue W in Brooklyn. The report indicated FF Hansen entered the rear bedroom and immediately was that people were trapped. The CIDS (critical information dis- driven to his knees by the punishing heat and zero visibility. patch system) information stated that there were limited These conditions were caused by numerous vinyl records, hydrants within the complex, no well hole in the stairwell and along with other items. FF Hansen crawled about eight feet long hand stretches. deeper into the room and found an unconscious, 56-year-old Engine 321 and Ladder 153 arrived first-due and members male, lying in the prone position. He grabbed the victim and began their way to the fourth floor. On their arrival, Lieutenant lifted him over boxes and stereo equipment that littered the Christopher Cooke, Engine 321, transmitted the 10-75 for a entire room. FF Hansen was able to carry the victim past the working fire on the fourth floor over the handie-talkie. door and into the living room, just as Engine 321 members Keeping the CIDS data in mind, FF Gregory Hansen realized received water in their line. that the 35-foot extension ladder was his only recourse to With the engine’s line now in place and ready to advance, access the fourth floor. it was much more difficult to remove the victim. At this point, He exited the apparatus, knowing that the bucket was not FF Hansen lifted the victim up and onto his shoulder and made going to be used due to the scaffolding in front of the building. a final push to exit the zero visibility of the apartment. In doing He was joined by Ladder 153’s chauffeur, FF Brian McManus, so, he was met with Ladder 153’s inside team and the outside and proceeded to the exposure #2 side of the building with the vent Firefighter, FF Peter Montagano, Ladder 156. With great 35-foot portable ladder. Arriving at the #2 side, a 36-year-old effort, the victim was successfully removed into the hallway. male was attempting to jump out of the fourth-floor window The man immediately was given CPR and oxygen. He was due to the heavy, black smoke conditions behind him. carried from the fourth floor to the street. In critical condition, As FF Hansen was ascending the ladder to the windowsill, he then was packaged and transported to Coney Island he simultaneously was calming the victim. He was able to Hospital (CIH). After initial treatment at CIH, the patient was reach the victim at the tip of the ladder and eased him out of transported to Jacobi Hospital for use of their hyperbaric the window and onto the fully extended 35-foot ladder. In chamber and continued care for his near-fatal injuries. order to control the rescue, FF Hansen pressed the victim Captain William Stark, Ladder 153, stated, FF Gregory against the ladder and was successful in bringing him down to Hansen’s heroic efforts most certainly saved the lives of two street level. people. Battalion Chief Donald After ensuring the victim Howard, Battalion 33, added, was in the hands of FF His persistent efforts at this fire McManus, FF Hansen returned resulted in two lives saved. The to the ladder and scaled it back tradition continues. FF Hansen to the fourth floor. He then acted in the finest traditions of donned his mask and entered the New York City Fire the fire apartment. Due to the Department. Recognizing his extremely long stretches, there bravery, the FDNY is proud to was no hand-line in place. As award FF Gregory Hansen with Ladder 153’s interior team the Emerald Society Pipes and reached the apartment, they, Ladder 153 operated at Brooklyn Box 55-3246, 3030 Emmons Drums Medal.--TW Avenue/Nostrand Avenue, on January 17, 2004.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 41 Company Officers Association Medal FIREFIGHTER DANIEL G. I NSARDI LADDER COMPANY 102

December 23, 2010, 1323 hours, Box 75-0659, 521A Greene Avenue, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on June 1, 1983. Previously assigned to Engine 253. Father, Captain Angelo D. Insardi (now deceased), was retired from Engine 328. Recipient of numerous unit citations. Resides in North Massapequa, Long Island, with his three children, Heather, Kerry and Gregory.

n the history of the FDNY, it has been proved time and out one of the windows in the rear confirmed the extent of the again that experience and dedication to the craft of fire- fire within. A six-foot chain link fence now stood between the Ifighting will allow one to see the big picture. FF Daniel rescuer and the rear of the fire building. FF Insardi quickly Insardi, Ladder 102, relied on these attributes when he rescued climbed the fence and once he reached the top, it abruptly col- a four-month-old from a burning apartment. lapsed, causing him to fall backward. Unfazed, he quickly Ladder 102 was assigned first-due to Box 0659, but gathered his composure and began to force the rear door. arrived second-due to a four-story, brownstone-type frame Nothing came easy on this day as FF Insardi discovered that structure. The building had thick, black smoke pouring from the entrance was blocked by furniture. Unable to get in, he all openings and people were shouting that a child was inside. attacked the hinges in order to remove the door completely. FF Insardi, a 28-year FDNY veteran, was assigned the outside FF Insardi now set to the task of searching for the missing vent (OV) position and he began his size-up as soon as he child. Conditions were punishing opposite the hose-line and stepped off the apparatus. became worse as he slipped past the doorway toward the rear FF Insardi had to alter his tactics from the onset of the bedroom. He crawled into the room and came upon an empty operation. He was now the second-due OV and he immediate- crib. Undaunted, he continued his search until he found a bed ly ascertained that Ladder 111’s OV was operating from its and the unconscious Aniyah Vaughn, a four-month-old female. tower ladder bucket, venting the front of the building. FF FF Insardi knew that even though she was breathing Insardi was receiving confirmed reports of a missing child weakly, he had to work fast to get her into the hands of from Battalion Chief John Rozas, Battalion 57. Combining advanced care. He proactively radioed to Chief Rozas to that information with his experience with the layout of this request that EMS personnel and a CFR engine meet him in kind of building, the Firefighter made some key decisions. front of the adjoining building, exposure #4. He carried the The picture unfolding told him that getting to his position in child and gave her rescue breaths as he retraced his steps to the the rear was supremely important because there was a good front of the building. chance the missing child would be there. Chief Rozas stated in his endorsement of FF Insardi that, he FF Insardi chose to go through exposure #4, a similar was, by far, the most qualified person on the scene to accomplish attached building, to get to this task alone. Although, the rear. Experience and unfortunately, the child ulti- instincts told him to bring mately expired, FF Insardi’s the forcible entry saw. His ability to think ahead to the instincts were correct; the next step of the operation, door below the stoop was under complex and challeng- protected by a heavy, steel- ing circumstances, gave reinforced door, which Aniyah Vaughn her best necessitated the saw to cut chance at survival. His forti- the multiple locks. Radio tude, determination and per- reports indicated slow severance exemplify the progress in the fire building finest traditions of the due to a narrow hall that was FDNY. For these reasons, FF blocked by furniture and Daniel Insardi is awarded the high heat. Company Officers The heavy fire venting Association Medal.--MD Ladder 102 operates at All Hands fire in Flushing, Queens, on April 17, 2002.

42 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal

FIREFIGHTER SHANE C. BENAC LADDER COMPANY 13 (ASSIGNED) LADDER COMPANY 43 (DETAILED) July 28, 2010, 1223 hours, Box 1303, East River, south side of the East 106th Street fishing pier, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on January 20, 2008. Member of the FDNY Football Team. Recipient of one unit cita- tion. Holds an AAS degree in Fire Science from Mesa Community College (Arizona). Resides in Long Island City, Queens.

edal Day is the most celebrated annual event among off the FDR, and members realized that, in fact, several people the members of the FDNY and their families. The were trapped alongside the pier. The downward current from Mceremony always reflects on the past year’s deeds of the East River against the pier created a whirlpool effect in daring with thoughts of valiant rescues from burning buildings which the victims were being pulled underwater. With three and smoke-filled hallways. However, blazing fires are not the confirmed victims, there would be three rescuers required, thus only incidents at which FDNY eliminating any back-up teams. Firefighters perform heroic Without hesitation, FF Benac deeds. Water rescues, while not donned his cold water rescue suit quite as prolific as rescues from and made his way down the pier fires, seem to be growing in num- to where the victims were ber throughout the City. trapped. After being tethered to a To address this phenomenon, safety line, FF Benac jumped the certain ladder companies 20 feet off the pier and into the throughout the five boroughs are choppy waters. He began to swim strategically designated by the toward the victims and reached FDNY as Water Rescue Units. 45-year-old Carlos Rivera, just Members of these companies are before he was swept under the required to undergo water rescue pier. The Firefighter grabbed Mr. training in addition to the field Rivera’s almost lifeless body, unit training at the Fire Academy pulled his head above water and and during company drills. secured him with the rescue buoy. On July 28, 2010, that train- FF Benac now struggled to ing came into play as Ladder 43 swim himself and get Mr. Rivera received a computer alarm for to the 20-foot ladder placed into Box 1303, reporting a male in the the water by the other members water in the East River, in the of Ladder 43. After finally reach- vicinity of the East 106th Street ing the ladder, FF Benac, assisted fishing pier. While en route, the by other members, removed the dispatcher updated the respond- victim from the river and almost ing units that reports of several certain death. Mr. Rivera was civilians in the water were being transported by ambulance to received. Metropolitan Hospital. He recov- FF Shane Benac, designated ered and was released. the primary rescuer at the day’s For maintaining the highest roll call, immediately began siz- traditions of the Department in ing up the situation, knowing the performing this heroic action, FF strong and unpredictable currents Shane C. Benac is proudly of the East River would portend a awarded the Chief Joseph B. difficult rescue. Ladder 43 Martin Medal.--SI approached the 106th Street pier, FF Shane Benac operated at Manhattan Box 22-1097, 12 East 80th Street/Fifth Avenue, April 22, 2010. photo by Vic Nicastro

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 43 Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal Christmas Day, December 25, 2010 SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn

PARAMEDIC PARAMEDIC EMT SEAN M. MCGRATH PATRICK M. O’NEIL PATRICK M. CREEDEN STATION 39 STATION 38 STATION 38

Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on February 6, 2004. Previously Technician on January 9, 2006. Previously assigned to Technician on September 29, 2000. Previously assigned to Stations 38 and 58. Member of the Station 4. Holds a BA degree in Communications and assigned to Station 31. Recipient of two unit first-place team in the 2009 EMS Competition. Media Studies/Journalism from Fordham University. citations and several pre-hospital saves. Holds Recipient of a pre-hospital save. Resides in Deer Resides in West Babylon, Long Island. an AAS degree from Broome Community Park, Long Island. College. Resides on Staten Island. aturday, December 25, 2010, started as a peaceful and ures during the prolonged extrication, ensuring that intra- serene tour for the FDNY EMS members who ultimately venous fluids were constantly infused to replace the patient’s Swere assigned to a precarious confined space incident at life-threatening blood loss. the SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn. The Paramedic Sean McGrath, working in unit 39R3, joined patient, a 47-year-old female, making a visit to a family mem- his fellow rescuers minutes later, bringing the knowledge and ber, entered a lobby-level elevator for an eight-story ride that expertise of a Rescue-trained Paramedic to the scene. became a life-altering experience, leaving her struggling for Paramedic McGrath implemented specialized ALS protocol to survival and praying for a Christmas Day miracle. treat the patient for crush injury syndrome, a cascade of phys- In what must have been a surreal moment of terror, the ele- iological events that quickly can lead to high blood toxin lev- vator began its eight-story ascent as the victim was entering the els, cardiac disrhythmia and irreversible tissue death. elevator car and became caught between the closing doors. The Amid the noise and haste of the extrication, the three EMS unforgiving forces of high voltage and structural steel mangled members remained in the elevator at the patient’s side, com- and tore the flesh from one of the patient’s arms in an instant as posed and focused on the shared objective of every rescuer on- the elevator began a mindless vertical ascent. With the patient’s scene--saving the victim. Alongside Firefighters toiling with air lower extremities partially outside the car, the elevator dragged bags and Hurst Tools, the EMS members remained as the eleva- upward, shattering and tearing the patient’s legs as it whisked tor floor was cut away, endangering all of the stricken elevator’s past seven landings. Finally arriving on the eighth floor, the vic- occupants. After almost an hour of disentanglement efforts, pro- tim was barely conscious, her body shattered and bleeding, with ficient Basic Life Support (BLS) and cutting-edge ALS treat- both of her crushed legs trapped between the elevator floor and ment, the patient was extricated from the elevator and rushed to landing. a waiting surgical team at the neigh- EMT Patrick Creeden, a Haz- boring Kings County Hospital Level- Tac-trained member working on unit I Trauma Center. 38H3, was one of the first EMS mem- The tireless efforts and selfless bers to make it to the victim’s side. dedication of Paramedics Sean Calling on his 10 years of experience McGrath and Patrick O’Neil and as an EMT, he worked feverishly to EMT Patrick Creeden allowed the control the bleeding from the victim to survive this tragedy, giving patient’s mangled limbs and treated her what was the greatest gift that her for the symptoms of compensated she ever could have hoped to receive hemorrhagic shock. that Christmas Day--the gift of her Arriving in the elevator moments life. For their lifesaving actions later was Paramedic Patrick O’Neil while facing extreme adversity, the of unit 58U3. Paramedic O’Neil, with FDNY honors these three members five years of experience, coordinated Following her extrication from the elevator, patient is read- with the Lieutenant Kirby Advanced Life Support (ALS) meas- ied for transport to Kings County Hospital. McElhearn Medal.--MJB photo by John Taggert, New York Daily News

44 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Police Honor Legion Medal

FIREFIGHTER BRIAN M. FLYNN ENGINE COMPANY 39 (ASSIGNED) LADDER COMPANY 16 (DETAILED)

June 24, 2010, 1726 hours, Box 75-1021, 200 East 71st Street, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on May 31, 2005. Father, Daniel Flynn (records manager), and stepmother, Eileen Flynn (administrative assistant), are both retired civilian employees of the FDNY. Member of the Holy Name and Emerald Societies. Holds an Associate’s Degree in Science from Nassau Community College. Resides in Queens, with his wife, Tracy, who soon will give birth to their first children, twins.

hen FF Brian Flynn, Engine 39, reported for duty in the tank. This, in turn, caused water to flood the elevator shafts, late afternoon of June 24, 2010, he was immediately rendering them inoperative. After expending the water in his Wdetailed across the floor to work in Ladder 16, where extinguisher and without the protection of a hose-line, FF he was assigned the extinguisher position. He would be part of the Flynn crawled past the fire and commenced a search. After inside team and carry a 21/2-gallon water extinguisher. searching two bedrooms, smoke was observed coming from a After the company returned to quarters following two third bedroom door. FF Flynn returned to the front of the apart- runs, they were directed to a reported building fire in the heart ment, re-traced his route and entered the third bedroom. of the Upper East Side. When the company arrived at its des- He crawled on his hands and knees, while calling out, any- tination--a 21-story, 200- by 100-foot, high-rise apartment one here? FF Flynn finally heard a slight gasp and located a house, there was no fire or smoke visible. However, once in 70-year-old female, who was semi-conscious. When he the lobby, the members were confronted with anxious resi- touched the woman, she rasped the word, oxygen. FF Flynn dents who were self-evacuating the premises. Additionally, a immediately started dragging the woman to safety. He was building employee advised them that there was smoke in the assisted by FF Rogozinski and, together, they removed the vic- hallway on the top floor and the apartment resident was home. tim to the 20th floor. Subsequently, suffering from smoke Immediately after receiving this information, FF Flynn, inhalation, she was transported to the hospital. led by Lieutenant Michael McGevna, and accompanied by FF Although FF Flynn credits the entire Ladder 16 team with Keith Rogozinski, took the elevator to the 19th floor. After their efforts to mitigate the possibility of dire consequences exiting, they took the stairs to the 21st floor. Once there, they that could have resulted from a broken standpipe and out-of- discovered smoke banked down in the public hallway. The service elevators, it was his individual effort that saved the life smoke was emanating of the resident. FF from apartment 21A, Flynn’s situational aware- where the door had been ness, observing a third left open. The team bedroom, knowing the entered the apartment and location of the fire, mak- observed flames in the ing a diligent search, as living room. Using water well as his determination from his extinguisher, FF and placing himself at Flynn was directed to risk, all culminated in a hold back the fire, while successful outcome. His members of Engine 39 actions clearly demon- proceeded into the 2000- strated the highest tradi- square-foot, four-bed- tions of the FDNY and room apartment. the entire fire service. Unfortunately, the For his courage and Engine 39 members had perseverance in the face insufficient water pres- of a dangerous environ- sure in their hose-line ment, the Police Honor because of a broken Legion Medal is proudly standpipe riser at the roof Engine 39 operated at Manhattan Box 66-0775, 370 Lexington Avenue/41st Street awarded to FF Brian M. (steam explosion), July 18, 2007. Flynn.--BDG

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 45 Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal

FIREFIGHTER CHRISTOPHER T. SCHICKLER ENGINE COMPANY 35 (ASSIGNED) ENGINE COMPANY 53 (DETAILED)

July 28, 2010, 1223 hours, Box 1303, East River in the vicinity of East 106th Street/FDR Drive, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on August 5, 2007. Father, FF Alan Schickler, is retired from Engine 53, cousin, Battalion Chief James Connelly, is assigned to Battalion 50 and cousin, Lieutenant Andrew F. Beck, is retired from Ladder 121. Member of the Steuben Association. Holds a BA degree from Springfield College. Resides in Merrick, Long Island.

n the beautiful summer morning of July 28, 2010, FF into the swirling currents of the river. Christopher Schickler had two reasons for feeling It was confirmed that three people were in the water and, Oexceptionally good. First, he had just returned from after surveying the area, FF Schickler spotted a 60-year-old, participating in the Iron Man competition in Lake Placid. unconscious male, whose head was under the water. Obviously, Second, he was detailed to Engine 53 for the tour; the same the man was in the most danger of the victims in the water and firehouse where his father worked and whose picture and/or required immediate assistance. FF Schickler commenced the name appeared in the many photos and plaques adorning the challenging task of swimming toward the man. walls. At the conclusion of the tour, FF Schickler added a third When FF Schickler reached the man, he pulled his head up reason to be elated; he saved someone’s life. and out of the water and started swimming, with the victim in Engine 53 was out in the field when the company, under tow, against the treacherous current toward a ladder that had been the command of Lieutenant Thomas Delgrosso, detailed from lowered from the pier. So powerful was the river’s motion that Ladder 13, was directed to respond to a report of a person in the both the victim and his rescuer started to be swept underneath the waters of the East River in the vicin- pier. Summoning all his strength, FF ity of 106th Street. Because the dis- Schickler, although exhausted, patcher advised that a heavy volume worked his way to the ladder and, of calls was being received for the with the assistance of FF John incident, the members started prepar- Rodriguez, Engine 39, detailed to ing for a water rescue. FF Schickler, Engine 53, lifted the unconscious knowing the area and anticipating the victim out of the water. He then was worst, removed his bunker gear passed to waiting EMS personnel. before the rig stopped on the north- Subsequently, the man, in critical bound lane of the FDR Drive, adja- condition and suffering from respira- cent to the 106th Street pier. tory arrest, was transported to Immediately on arrival, the crew Metropolitan Hospital. FF Schickler noticed two people in the water, who was treated at NY Presbyterian were in obvious distress, attempting Hospital for a strained back, expo- to keep their heads above water. sure and exhaustion. FF Schickler immediately leapt Although he does not possess off the apparatus into the oncoming formal training in swift-water res- traffic lane, raced around the front of cue techniques, nevertheless, FF the truck, vaulted the dividing wall Schickler acted decisively and separating the highway from the pier quickly to save the life of a drown- and ran to the end of the structure. ing man. It is for these reasons, cou- After being secured to a rope by FF pled with the fact that he operated Andrew Dory, Engine 22, detailed to From one FDNY generation to the next--Father, Alan alone, that the Firefighter David J. Engine 53, FF Schickler scaled a Schickler, with son, Christopher T. Schickler, honored with DeFranco Medal is proudly present- wrought-iron fence and, disregarding the Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal for his water rescue. ed to FF Christopher T. Schickler.-- Chris was detailed to Engine 53--the Company from which his his personal safety, jumped 20 feet dad retired as a Firefighter--when he made the rescue. BDG

46 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Lieutenant James E. Zahn/ Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal FIREFIGHTER JOSHUA M. LOMASK LADDER COMPANY 147

January 28, 2010, 0225 hours, Box 75-2513, 403 Avenue C, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on October 15, 1995. Previously assigned to Engine 33. Recipient of two As and two unit citations. Resides in Brooklyn with his wife, Diana, and their children, John, Michael and Joseph.

t takes a noble, brave person to risk his/her life for others. Lomask quickly began moving the ladder to the window. The members of the Fire Department of New York uphold He then instructed the terrified woman to stay where she Ithese qualities with pride and dedication. Along with was and he would come to her. When FF Lomask moved the being courageous, firefighting takes proficiency and leader- aerial ladder to the window, he saw that the woman had left ship. These qualities were exhibited by FF Joshua Lomask and gone back into the apartment. The inside team of Ladder when he acted promptly to save the life of a woman who was 147 was moving toward the bedroom of the apartment, but the trapped in an apartment. members were abruptly met by the furious blaze in the living At 0225 hours on January 28, 2010, Ladder 147 was dis- room. This prevented them from getting to the woman trapped patched to a fire at 403 Avenue C in the Kensington section of in the bedroom. It was obvious now that the only chance for Brooklyn. This call seemed similar to most runs for FF her to be rescued was from the window where FF Lomask had Lomask and the members of Ladder 147. However, while the placed the aerial ladder. truck was en route to the fire, additional information, report- Arriving at the window and not seeing anybody, FF ing numerous calls with a person trapped inside the apart- Lomask quickly removed the child guards that prevented him ment, was given to the members. from entering the apartment through the window. He donned On arrival, Engine 281 gave the 10-75 signal for a work- his facepiece and entered the smoke-filled room. About five ing fire on the fourth floor of a four- feet into this toxic environment, FF story multiple dwelling. Fire was vis- Lomask found the woman--disorient- ible from the front two windows onto ed, semi-conscious and scared. With the fire escape. The room in which the the smoke thickening and most of the person was trapped was directly building engulfed in flame, it was adjoining the fire room. Some of the vital that this rescue be completed members of Ladder 147, who already quickly. were in the building, proceeded to the Operating without the protection fourth floor via the interior stairs and of a charged hose-line, FF Lomask began forcing entry into apartment helped the woman back to the win- 4D. As the forcible entry team pro- dow and out onto the aerial ladder. He ceeded, an interior latch was noticed was assisted by FF Thomas Tanzosh, on the door, confirming the members’ Ladder 148’s outside vent Firefighter, anxiety--someone was inside. who helped complete her removal Ladder 147’s roof Firefighter down to the ground. continued to move toward the roof by FF Lomask was decisive and means of the stairway with the life- aggressive when he made his move saving rope and roof saw. Then, into the bedroom, knowing the Ladder 147’s chauffeur, FF Lomask, woman trapped inside had little time set up the aerial ladder. He noticed a to spare. For his meritorious actions, woman at the window of the fire FF Joshua M. Lomask is presented apartment. Heavy, black smoke was with the Lieutenant James E. billowing over her head. After trans- Zahn/Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano mitting this information to the Ladder 147 operates at Brooklyn Box 33-2446, 1430 Memorial Medal.--VG Incident Commander (IC), FF Flatbush Avenue/Farragut Road, May 26, 2009. photo by Brooklyn Dispatcher Warren Fuchs (retired)

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 47 Lieutenant James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal

ENGINE COMPANY 63

July 4, 2008, 1953 hours, Box 75-3886, 708 East 243rd Street, Bronx

LIEUTENANT JOHN M. FLAHERTY (BN-15) FF JONAS G. A DAMS, JR. FF ANTHONY M. CUOZZO FF PHILIP MARINO FF ROBERT W. PAINTER

ith more than the usual number of calls for odor of When they reached the second-floor landing, Firefighters smoke or working fires started accidentally by ille- were met with a high heat and heavy smoke condition from Wgal fireworks, the Fourth of July is always a busy fire emanating from the open fire apartment door. Lieutenant night for the Fire Department. But not all fires are accidental Flaherty and Lieutenant Mannion, Ladder 39 covering, and the ones that are set intentionally are meant to be more attempted to pull the door closed, but the volume of flames severe, usually by someone seeking total destruction. proved too much for the limited extinguisher water from Someone removed a gas meter from a second-floor apartment Ladder 39’s extinguisher Firefighter. at 708 East 243rd Street in the Bronx. That action placed the Calling for a second line, but knowing that it would be members of Engine 63 in a life-threatening situation and test- delayed, Lieutenant Flaherty called for water and led the ed their resolve. members of Engine 63 in gaining control of the interior stairs The evening of July 4, 2008, was still young for FFs Jonas and then the hallway as they worked their way toward the fire G. Adams, Jr., Anthony M. Cuozzo, Philip Marino and Robert apartment. As they crawled down the floor with blue flames W. Painter, working the evening shift in Engine 63. Lieutenant shooting out of the apartment door, they had to muster every John M. Flaherty, Battalion 15, was the Officer assigned to the ounce of courage to make the turn into the fire apartment. The engine for that tour. At 1953 hours, the computer spat out a blue flames they saw were coming from the gas pipeline report of a phone alarm for a fire in the six-story multiple where the meter had been removed and the intense heat had dwelling where the above-mentioned gas meter had been set fire to the whole apartment. removed. As they were responding, the dispatcher warned As other units began to fight, the fire extended to the floor incoming units that there were numerous phone calls and above and other apartments. The members of Engine 63 con- reports of fire on the second and third floors. tinued to claw their way into the fully involved apartment as The building’s location in the uppermost corner of the the gas-fueled flames roared over their heads. When all visible Bronx, one block from the Westchester border in Mount fire had been knocked down and the gas supply had been shut Vernon, meant that there would be a delay for secondary units down, they were relieved by Engine 38 members, who contin- responding. From three blocks away, the responders could see ued to extinguish pockets of fire in the charred apartment. a heavy volume of ominous, black smoke, billowing from the Had it not been for the aggressive efforts of the members roof. As the Engine 63 chauffeur pulled up to the reported of Engine 63, with no second line to back them up, the fire address, the members could see deadly flames lapping out the could have quickly spread to envelop the whole building. For second-floor windows in the throat of the building. the skill, determination, courage and teamwork displayed by He bypassed the hydrant in front of the building to facili- Lieutenant John M. Flaherty and FFs Jonas G. Adams, Jr., tate tower ladder placement in that strategic position and Anthony M. Cuozzo, Philip Marino and Robert W. Painter, the instead positioned the engine on the corner of White Plains Fire Department is proud to present the Lieutenant James Road. The members of Engine 63 quickly worked to get a first Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal line in position as a crowd began to gather to watch the grow- to Engine Company 63.--JT ing inferno and residents self-evacuated the building.

48 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal

LADDER COMPANY 174

March 29, 2010, 0421 hours, Box 75-1580, 3813 Church Avenue, Brooklyn

LIEUTENANT RAYMOND J. BAYER, JR. FF GERARD F. C AVANAGH FF DANIEL P. D ONOHUE FF JAMES M. DOWDELL FF JOHN J. O’SULLIVAN FF JON MICH SOMMESO

he anthropologist Margaret Meade once said, Never had problems getting to the rear of the building. Thinking doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed peo- quickly, he placed a portable ladder onto the one-story Tple can change the world. This saying is true for attached structure and climbed to the roof. He then pulled the Firefighters, too, as they often make a world-changing differ- ladder up to the roof and moved to the rear of the building and ence in dire moments. Such was the case for four individuals climbed down into the rear yard. residing at 3813 Church Avenue, a two-story, 25- by 60-foot, By this time, Engine 248 had stretched a hand-line and commercial/residential structure in the Flatbush section of pushed back the fire, which was in complete control of the Brooklyn, when fire erupted in the early-morning hours of first-floor stairwell. This allowed the inside team to climb the March 29, 2010. staircase and search the upper floor. Working in high heat and Working the six by nine tour that early spring morning in zero visibility, the team forced the door of the rear apartment. Ladder 174, Snyder Island, were Lieutenant Raymond J. However, while this was occurring, Engine 248 had re-posi- Bayer, Jr., and FFs Gerard F. Cavanagh, Daniel P. Donohue, tioned their line into the first-floor store, which allowed the James M. Dowdell, John J. O’Sullivan and Jon M. Sommeso. stairwell to reignite, thereby forcing the team to operate under At 0421 hours, the tone alarms went off in the Snyder Avenue punishing conditions. firehouse and the company responded as first-due truck to the On the second floor, the team members closed the door reported fire. behind them to keep the now-unchecked fire at bay and began Engine 248, which was the first-due engine, reported on to search the apartment. FF Dowdell, in the course of his arrival that heavy smoke was pushing from the building and search, located a nine-month-old baby on a bed and almost transmitted a 10-75. As Ladder 174 arrived, Lieutenant Bayer immediately, FF Donohue located two other victims. observed a civilian about to jump from the second floor due to Lieutenant Bayer immediately was notified of the three 10-45s heavy smoke pushing from the window. The Lieutenant and radioed this information to Battalion Chief Joseph McKie, ordered the chauffeur, FF Cavanagh, to position the aerial and Battalion 41. With this information, Engine 248 re-positioned rescue the trapped civilian. their hand-line and knocked down the stairwell fire. The inside Meanwhile, entering the building, the inside team--the team then brought the three civilians down to the safety of the Lieutenant and FFs Donohue with the irons and Dowdell with street and handed them off to EMS personnel. the extinguisher--were pushed back by heavy fire and thick In his report of the incident, Deputy Chief Stephen Moro, smoke in the stairwell. Division 15, noted, The rapid Simultaneously, FF Cavanagh intervention and removal by set the aerial in place, ascended Ladder 174 was instrumental the ladder and rescued the cut- in the survival of these four off civilian. However, because individuals. They demonstrat- the aerial was being used, FF ed job knowledge, aggressive Sommeso, the roof Firefighter, action and a coordinated needed to improvise. effort in making this rescue. Moving quickly, he took a The Fire Department of the tarred-over scuttle ladder from City of New York is proud to the adjoining building, which honor the members of Ladder required use of a Halligan tool Company 174 today with the to pry open the scuttle cover. Firefighter Thomas R. Additionally, FF O’Sullivan, Elsasser Memorial Medal.-- outside vent Firefighter, also Ladder 174 operated at this two-alarm fire on East 92nd Street, DJH Brooklyn, April 4, 2002.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 49 Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal FIRE MARSHAL BRIAN M. KREBS BFI--CITY-WIDE SOUTH COMMAND

March 1, 2010, 2346 hours, Box 75-2605, 981 57th Street, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY as a Firefighter on February 2, 2003. Previously assigned to Engine 14. Recipient of a unit citation. Holds a BS degree in Speech Communications with a minor in Business Communications.

rimes committed by organized street gangs typically implemented a strategy that resulted in the apprehension of a focus on racketeering, arms trafficking, extortion, number of suspects. Skilled interrogation led to confessions Cassault, robbery and murder. The night of March 1, and the identification of previously unknown suspects. 2010, was different; this time, the members of one of the more Working jointly with BFI’s Special Investigations Unit, notorious street gangs were focused on revenge. FM Krebs presented the results of his investigation to the At 981 57th Street in the Borough Park section of Office of the District Attorney and the Grand Jury, resulting in Brooklyn, all family members had gone to bed early. Just after the July 21 indictment of 18 members of the street gang organ- midnight, they awoke in terror to the sound of breaking glass, ization. FM Krebs spearheaded an apprehension team manned as multiple Molotov cocktails were propelled through the by members of the BFI and the NYPD. A total of 30 arrests first-floor windows, trapping the occupants on the upper floor. were made by FM Krebs in this case. The quick response by Firefighters from Engine 247 and This is a significant BFI accomplishment. The results of Ladder 148 led to a rapid attack on the fire and the safe this investigation send forth a powerful message--to both the removal of occupants. Grateful family members later reported public and potential offenders--that the FDNY will meet and that the Firefighters had appeared almost instantly. confront all those who challenge the safety of the citizens of Fire Marshals from the Bureau of New York City and the Firefighters of Fire Investigation (BFI), City-Wide the FDNY. The perpetrators in this South Command, responded. case showed a depraved indifference Supervising Fire Marshal Tom Kane to human life when under the cover of assigned Fire Marshal Brian Krebs as darkness, they firebombed a fully the lead investigator. FM Krebs con- occupied private residence. ducted a forensic examination of the FM Krebs worked diligently to fire scene that determined two incen- develop investigative leads. Then, diary devices were thrown through the with fearless resolve, he set out to hunt front windows. He uncovered evi- and apprehend these violent felons, dence and processed it for laboratory known to carry and use firearms. As analysis. FM Krebs conducted an area the apprehensions were made, FM canvass, seeking investigative leads. Krebs distinguished himself in his He interviewed potential witnesses, knowledge of the law and skilled use cultivated confidential informants, of interview/interrogation techniques, analyzed investigative data bases and which generated powerful evidence evaluated intelligence gleaned from a for the prosecution. Throughout the variety of law enforcement sources. course of this investigation, FM Krebs Investigation uncovered links to a demonstrated the resourcefulness and second nearby fire and to street gang tenacity found only in the most dedi- activity, specifically this particular cated investigators. infamous gang. FM Krebs determined His actions represent the highest the motive of both fires was revenge traditions in law enforcement. With related to an internal gang dispute. this in mind, FM Brian Krebs is During the next days, weeks and awarded the Deputy Commissioner months, the Fire Marshal continued to Christine R. Godek Medal.--JDL identify elusive gang members, then Taking a break from training at Camp Smith Range is Fire Marshal Brian Krebs.

50 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 William Friedberg Medal

FIREFIGHTER CHRISTOPHER J. MINICHIELLO LADDER COMPANY 126

May 25, 2010, 1826 hours, Box 75-9839, 97-17 Waltham Street, Queens

Appointed to the FDNY on August 5, 2007. Member of the Columbia Association and the Emerald Society. Resides in Astoria, Queens.

t is often said that being a Firefighter is not just a career heard a person moaning in the apartment. He then reached his choice, but a calling. A great sense of pride and dedication hand behind the door and felt the hand of the victim. Knowing Iexude from the members and drives them to be the heroes that time was running out, the Firefighter quickly pushed the they truly are. FF Christopher J. Minichiello embodies these door in enough to slip through the opening, disregarding his qualities and on the evening of May 25, 2010, he demonstrated own safety. Captain Krueger then followed suit. Without the his abilities and proved what an asset he is to the Department. protection of a hose-line and knowing that the fire hydrant was On the evening of May 25th, at 1826 hours, a fire broke out out of service, this rescue was particularly treacherous. in a private dwelling in Queens. Early on in the response, the As the fire began to draw closer to the rescuers, FF dispatcher reported an elderly person was trapped on the second Minichiello moved the victim back, while FF Sweeney pushed floor. Engine 303 was first-due. The members transmitted a 10- the door open and assisted in removing the victim down the 75 signal. It was evident that this fire was dangerous and mov- stairs. The victim then was placed in the care of other members ing quickly. On arrival, Ladder 126 members observed an on the ground level. The Firefighters at the scene worked fever- advanced fire pouring out of the front windows. Conditions ishly to extinguish the fire. began to deteriorate rapidly. FF Minichiello used an innate sense of awareness by under- Engine 303’s Commander quickly reported an out-of-serv- standing the report of the trapped elderly occupant, the location ice hydrant. A 10-70 signal (water supply is required) was of the fire and the resistance of the apartment door. Putting immediately transmitted, as well as an urgent handie-talkie these elements together, he was able to execute this rescue suc- message to all mem- cessfully. Had it not bers on the scene. been for the quick and The inside team of aggressive actions of Captain Daniel FF Minichiello and the Krueger (Division 13) inside team, the and FFs Minichiello injuries sustained by with the irons and the victim certainly Matthew J. Sweeney would have been more with the extinguisher, extensive, if not fatal. forced the inside foyer Unfortunately, she did door open, leading up expire a few months to the second floor. later. For his timely When they got to the and heroic actions, the top of the stairs, they FDNY is pleased to forced the second-floor honor FF Christopher apartment door open. Minichiello with the The door opened only William Friedberg about one foot, indicat- Medal.--VG ing that there was something or someone behind it. FF Matt Sweeney (left) had the extinguisher and William Friedberg Medal winner, FF FF Minichiello Christopher Minichiello (right)--both of Ladder 126--had the irons at Queens Box 75-9839, 97-17 Waltham Street.

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 51 Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal

FIREFIGHTER STEPHEN J. CUNNINGHAM LADDER COMPANY 148

July 20, 2010, 0303 hours, Box 75-3799, 1452 55th Street, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on May 31, 2005. Father, FF Steve Cunningham, is retired from Ladder 153. Member of the Emerald Society and Columbia Association. Holds a BS degree with a a double major in Art and Management from the College of Staten Island. Resides on Staten Island.

s New Yorkers know, by mid-July, the nights are swel- Meanwhile, FF Cunningham began his search to the left. tering and humid. In the outer boroughs, as traffic dies FF Jablonsky emptied the extinguisher on the growing fire and Aaway, the sound of air conditioners sometimes are then tried to hold back the flames by closing the door. However, louder than the summer cicada insects. For FDNY the expanding inferno quickly burned through the luan (a type Firefighters, this time of year is especially difficult because of plywood) door and began to roll across the ceiling. they must contend with the heat and humidity, as well as the Without the benefit of a charged hose-line and the extin- weight of their personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools. guisher emptied of water, FF Cunningham pressed on with his Such was the case on July 20, 2010, when at approximately left-handed search. Under arduous conditions, he moved 15 0300 hours, a fire broke out on the third floor of 1452 55th feet deeper into the apartment. His dedication was rewarded Street in the Borough Park section of Brooklyn. when he found an unconscious victim, face-down in the mid- Working the irons positions that hot night in Ladder 148 dle of the room. The Firefighter dragged the burned victim past was FF Stephen J. Cunningham. As the call came into the 12th the unchecked fire to the safety of the public hallway. As res- Avenue firehouse, every member knew--because of the hour-- cuer and victim reached safety, Lieutenant Paholek and Engine that civilians would be at risk with many in bed and asleep. An 247’s hose team arrived and a 10-45 code was transmitted. aggressive attack would be required. FF Cunningham removed the victim to the floor below Ladder 148 arrived at the 75- by and oxygen was administered by 100-foot, non-fireproof multiple members of Engine 201. FF dwelling in a bit more than four min- Cunningham then returned to the utes. FF Cunningham, along with fire apartment. Even though he was Lieutenant Robert Giddings and FF bordering on exhaustion and had Henry Jablonsky (Engine 282) with received a puncture wound through the extinguisher, quickly climbed up his glove, he continued to search for to the third floor where they met additional victims. This search Lieutenant Ryan Paholek, Engine 247 proved negative. covering, who was controlling the In his report of the incident, door to apartment 3F to protect ten- Battalion Chief Mark Fernen wrote: ants as they fled the upper floors of FF Cunningham exhibited personal the building. The inside team donned bravery by placing himself at risk their facepieces and hoods and, after while conducting a determined the safety of the occupants in the search in dangerous and worsening stairway was ensured, entered the conditions without the protection of burning apartment. an operating hose-line in place. If FF Cunningham and the other not for his actions, it is highly members of the team were immedi- unlikely the victim would be alive ately met with a tremendous blast of today. The New York City Fire heat and smoke. Lieutenant Giddings Department is proud to honor FF heard the crackling of fire from the Stephen J. Cunningham today with right and ordered FF Jablonsky to the Shelly Rothman Memorial open the extinguisher and assist him Medal.--DJH with a right-handed search. FF Stephen J. Cunningham with forcible entry tools.

52 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Jack Pintchik Medal

November 2, 2010 314 West 40th Street, Manhattan, near the Port Authority Bus Terminal

EMT EMT ERIC J. HOWARD KEITH G. M ARTIN STATION 8 STATION 8

Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on July 27, 2009. Appointed to EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician on September 28, Father, Lieutenant Gary Howard, is retired from Rescue 2. On a leave of 2009. Previously assigned to Station 15. Studied liberal arts at St. John’s absence from studying at Adelphi University. Resides in Whitestone, Queens. University and is attending the College of Westchester, studying multimedia. Resides in the Bronx.

embers of the Emergency Medical Service was able to radio for assistance and several Officers encounter many situations where their quick quickly arrived, taking the man into custody. EMTs Mthinking can make a big impact. Being in the Howard and Martin continued on to their original assign- right place at the right time doesn’t hurt either. This ment, transporting a patient with back pain to Bellevue proved true for EMTs Eric Howard and Keith Martin on Hospital. November 2, 2010. For several days, Officer Desthers searched for the They arrived on-scene of what they thought would EMTs who had come to her aid. Other EMS units that be a routine assignment on West 40th Street in she encountered were unaware of the incident and didn’t Manhattan. As they exited their ambulance and began know to whom she was referring. Finally, on November gathering equipment, they heard a woman yelling behind 5th, EMTs Howard and Martin were notified that Officer them, calling for assistance. Naturally, they turned to see Desthers wanted to say thanks. where the calls were coming from. EMT Howard said, We didn’t tell anyone it hap- It was then that the EMTs observed that the calls for pened. We just didn’t think it was a big deal. He noted help were coming from a Port Authority Police Officer, that the pair had been on-scene for only 12 minutes, who was struggling with a combative man. From a dis- including the time to help the Officer and their patient. tance, it appeared that the man was reaching for the However, Officer Desthers certainly thought it was a big Officer’s gun. deal. Without hesitation, EMTs Howard and Martin react- The EMTs’ superiors think it is a big deal, too, and ed and ran down the block to assist. They approached the one that is medal-worthy. For exhibiting quick thinking man, who began shouting at them and attempted to throw and putting their personal safety at risk, EMTs Eric a drink at them. Together, EMTs Howard and Martin Howard and Keith Martin are proudly presented with the were able to restrain the man by holding him against a Jack Pintchik Medal.--JP wall. The Port Authority Officer, Amy Desthers, then

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 53 World Trade Center Memorial Medal ENGINE COMPANY 54 LADDER COMPANY 4 May 1, 2010, 1835 hours, Box 0814, corner of West 45th Street/7th Avenue, Times Square, Manhattan

ENGINE COMPANY 54 LADDER COMPANY 4 LIEUTENANT MICHAEL B. BARVELS LIEUTENANT JOHN V. K AZAN FF PAUL J. FISCHETTI (L-4) FF TIMOTHY R. CASHION (E-54) FF STEPHEN J. HUGHES (L-4) FF SCOTT A. HICKEY FF FEDERICO MARTINEZ FF WILLIAM J. LEAHY FF NICHOLAS M. PETTENATO FF BRIAN J. LOVERIDGE FF COLIN C. RYAN FF GEORGE T. YOUNG

t the quarters of Engine 54/Ladder 4, the night tour was Young’s canvass of the area located a police officer who had just getting started. It was a Saturday night, May 1st, seen the driver park the vehicle and then run. Lieutenant Kazan Aearly spring and warm. Lieutenants Michael Barvels, advised the on-scene mounted police officer to initiate a com- Engine 54, and John Kazan, Ladder 4, had completed roll calls. puter search of the vehicle and registered owner. That comput- Working in Engine 54 were FFs Paul Fischetti, Stephen er search determined the vehicle was unregistered. Hughes, Federico Martinez, Nicholas Pettenato and Colin The Lieutenants now advised all members to address the Ryan. Working in Ladder 4 were FFs Timothy Cashion, Scott concern of secondary devices and then coordinated with NYPD Hickey, William Leahy, Brian Loveridge and George Young. to ensure a response by ESU and the Bomb Squad. Within min- At 1835 hours, the teleprinter signaled a vehicle fire at utes, the area was filled with emergency response personnel. West 45th Street and 7th Avenue. All members immediately Evaluation by the Bomb Squad confirmed it; this was, indeed, recognized that a routine car fire in this high-profile, midtown a vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED). area was unlikely. The members of Engine 54/Ladder 4, all The members of Engine 54/Ladder 4 continued to support highly trained in situational awareness and response strategy, emergency response operations. Ladder 4 readied FAST unit went to work. As the apparatus pulled into traffic, both tools and SKED stretchers in anticipation of injured person- Lieutenants Barvels and Kazan began formulating a strategy. nel. Engine 54 prepared for a long stretch to enable tactical Nearing the intersection, both company Officers began action in the event of an activated explosive device. Both their size-up. The streets were crowded with pedestrians and companies operated for the next five hours until relieved. traffic. Just ahead, the two Lieutenants observed an older In his report of this incident, Deputy Chief Daniel model Nissan Pathfinder with hazard lights flashing and white Donoghue, Division 3, described the professional actions of smoke seeping from the passenger compartment. This was the Officers and members of Engine 54/Ladder 4 as a textbook unusual. The situation had just escalated significantly. Both response to the new standard in terrorism-related incidents Officers now put into motion a strategy that would fully iden- performed in the highest standards of the FDNY. tify the existing situation, ensure the safety of exposed civil- Commissioner Salvatore J. Cassano and Chief of Department ians and properly mitigate the immediate threat. Edward S. Kilduff remarked that their measured approach Many issues had to be addressed simultaneously. emphasized caution and restraint to achieve optimal situation- Lieutenant Barvels directed FF Martinez to maneuver the al awareness. apparatus into a protective position and then ordered the mem- This was a highly significant FDNY operation. The com- bers to ready a hose-line and hook up to the hydrant. The noz- pany Officers and Firefighters set in motion and executed a zle team of FFs Pettenato and Ryan alerted Lieutenant Barvels series of actions that led to the successful mitigation of a ter- of fireworks-like flashes from within the vehicle, leading him rorist threat from an improvised explosive device and ensured to make a critical tactical decision--delay extinguishment the recovery of highly significant prosecutorial evidence. With operations and gather more intel. teamwork and unwavering resolve, they met the unique chal- Lieutenants Barvels and Kazan, alert to the possibility of lenge of this potentially horrific terrorist attack that targeted radioactivity in the area, directed FFs Fischetti, Hughes, Leahy the citizens of New York City. The terrorist, Faisal Shahzad, is and Loveridge to deploy the Ultraradiac and Rad 50 meters to serving life in prison. For their textbook resolution to this inci- monitor radiation levels. Continued area assessment by FFs dent, the members of Engine Company 54 and Ladder Hickey, Cashion and Leahy determined there were continued Company 4 are presented with the World Trade Center popping reports from the rear passenger area of the vehicle. FF Memorial Medal.--JDL

54 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 Service Rating A

FF Shane C. Benac, L-13 FF Cristofer N. DiBenedetto, Sq-18 Capt. Charles A. Mastandrea, L-29 FF John J. Blake, III, L-48 FF Joseph P. Diodato, L-61 Lt. Patrick E. McNiff, Bn-12 FF Matthew R. Bland, E-96 FF Brian M. Flynn, E-39 FF James G. McNulty, L-170 FF Shaun A. Burgos, L-19 FF Keith M. Gilligan, L-28 FF Christopher J. Minichiello, L-126 Lt. Anthony Campanelli, E-21 FF Gregory Hansen, L-153 FF Brian T. Mitchell, L-122 Lt. John F. Carroll, Bn-18 Lt. Kevin P. Hayes, L-3 FF Robert J. Moore, L-167 FF Anthony R. Cavalieri, R-5 FF Daniel G. Insardi, L-102 FF Christian S. Nielsen, L-157 FF Anthony E. Chaimowitz, L-112 Lt. James P. Kelly, E-245 FF Brian K. O’Keefe, L-28 FF Angelo J. Cocciolillo, L-54 Capt. Kieran M. Kilduff, L-19 FF William L. Roesch, L-168 Lt. William R. Croak, L-170 FF Joshua M. Lomask, L-147 Capt. James F. Rogers, L-59 FF Stephen J. Cunningham, L-14 FF Matthew R. Lopez, L-16 FF Christopher T. Schickler, E-35 FF Paul A. Denver, L-59 FF Nicholas S. Marchese, L-58 Service Rating B

FF Kevin F. Brennan, L-80 FF John J. Dorn, M-1 FF Brian T. Marts, E-90 FF Nicholas E. Brisotti, L-59 FF Ronilo T. Fuentes, L-41 FF Daniel B. Maurice, L-52 FF Glenn S. Bullock, R-1 Lt. Brian J. Horton, L-61 FF James F. McKechnie, L-167 FF Patrick L. Cattani, Jr., L-167 FF Marcin Kalski, E-257 FF William J. Patsakos, L-80 FF Kevin C. Clayton, L-176 FF Stephen B. Katz, R-1 FF Anthony Reynolds, L-47 FF David Collado, Sq-61 FF Kenneth LaBarbera, E-168 FF Nicholas A. Shelse, L-161 FF Cristofer N. DiBenedetto, Sq-18 FF Thomas J. Liguori, E-254 FF Brian W. Walsh, L-137

Bureau of Fire Investigation--BFI

Service Rating A Service Rating B

FM John R. Barry, Squad 34, CWN FM Peter M. Bradley, Squad 55, CWN FM Brian T. Kane, Special Investigations Unit FM Constantine J. Kanelopoulos, Squad 32, CWS FM Constantine J. Kanelopoulos, Squad 32, CWS FM Raymond Ott, CWN FM Brian M. Krebs, Squad 35, CWS FM George E. Snyder, Jr., Squad 55, CWN FM Frank L. Quiles, Special Investigations Unit FM Joseph B. Sullivan, Auto Fraud Squad FM John P. Watkins, Special Investigations Unit Unit Citations Latin Kings Task Force Citywide South Special Investigations Unit March 1, 2010, Box 2605 April 11, 2010, Box 294 July 13, 2010, Box 8611

Squad 32, Citywide South Citywide North Special Investigations Unit March 10, 2010, Box 851 April 20, 2010, Box 2760 September 5, 2010, Box 3626

Squad 37, Citywide South Citywide South/ Special Investigations Unit April 6, 2010 Special Investigations Unit September 15, 2010, Box 3070 May 3, 2010, Box 483

Fireworks Enforcement Unit July 5, 2010

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 55 ospital Save Comm CFR Pre-H endations January-December 2010

January 2010 March 2010 May 2010 Engine Company 8, January 31 Engine Company 8, Engine Company 8, May 17 Engine Company 10, January 2 March 20 and March 30 Engine Company 14, May 27 Engine Company 14, January 18 Engine Company 15, March 21 Engine Company 22, May 23 Engine Company 28, January 2 Engine Company 16, Engine Company 39, May 27 Engine Company 44, January 25 March 17 and March 31 Engine Company 54, May 29 Engine Company 47, January 12 Engine Company 23, March 16 Engine Company 74, May 26 Engine Company 48, January 1 Engine Company 46, March 2 Engine Company 75, May 18 Engine Company 65, January 6 Engine Company 60, March 19 Engine Company 95, May 28 Engine Company 90, January 17 Engine Company 81, March 24 Engine Company 156, May 27 Engine Company 167, January 8 Engine Company 89, March 3 Engine Company 217, May 17 Engine Company 168, Engine Company 231, March 17 Engine Company 230, May 4 January 2 and January 16 Engine Company 234, March 30 Engine Company 236, Engine Company 231, January 14 Engine Company 240, March 20 May 10 and May 18 Engine Company 240, January 26 Engine Company 254, March 23 Engine Company 262, May 25 Engine Company 249, January 12 Engine Company 255, March 10 Engine Company 275, May 4 Engine Company 273, January 2 Engine Company 257, March 9 Engine Company 282, May 31 Engine Company 274, January 24 Engine Company 271, March 16 Engine Company 283, Engine Company 282, January 17 Engine Company 276, May 6 and May 31 Engine Company 284, January 9 March 18 and March 19 Engine Company 319, May 18 Engine Company 291, January 9 Engine Company 290, March 26 Engine Company 328, May 10 Engine Company 293, January 20 Engine Company 299, March 16 Engine Company 332, May 4 Engine Company 307, January 16 Engine Company 305, March 20 Engine Company 320, Engine Company 307, March 21 June 2010 January 3 and January 21 Engine Company 310, March 23 Squad Company 41, June 29 Engine Company 321, January 8 Engine Company 318, March 27 Engine Company 88, June 10 Engine Company 325, January 13 Engine Company 325, Engine Company 89, June 7 March 22 and March 31 Engine Company 211, June 17 February 2010 Engine Company 330, March 22 Engine Company 219, June 12 Engine Company 22, February 8 Engine Company 222, June 28 Engine Company 37, February 16 April 2010 Engine Company 231, June 10 Engine Company 40, February 9 Engine Company 53, April 2 Engine Company 253, June 13 Engine Company 47, February 14 Engine Company 62, April 29 Engine Company 286, June 17 Engine Company 59, February 18 Engine Company 79, April 5 Engine Company 292, June 16 Engine Company 76, February 24 Engine Company 89, April 3 Engine Company 303, June 15 Engine Company 82, February 28 Engine Company 92, April 18 Engine Company 305, June 4 Engine Company 97, February 12 Engine Company 158, April 10 Engine Company 311, June 15 Engine Company 222, Engine Company 240, April 16 Engine Company 312, June 4 February 3 and February 20 Engine Company 280, April 10 Engine Company 241, February 11 Engine Company 282, April 6 Engine Company 243, February 5 Engine Company 285, April 28 Engine Company 257, February 5 Engine Company 292, April 28 Engine Company 286, February 7 Engine Company 293, April 26 Engine Company 287, February 26 Engine Company 308, April 13 Squad Company 288, February 26 Engine Company 325, April 8 Engine Company 291, February 18 Engine Company 331, April 5 Engine Company 292, February 21 Engine Company 295, February 22 Engine Company 308, February 6 Engine Company 315, February 25 Engine Company 332, February 24

56 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 July 2010 September 2010 November 2010 Engine Company 24, July 17 Engine Company 21, September 19 Engine Company 23, November 1 Engine Company 42, July 12 Engine Company 37, September 28 Engine Company 42, November 26 Engine Company 43, July 8 Engine Company 50, September 8 Engine Company 48, November 17 Engine Company 44, July 12 Squad Company 61, September 28 Engine Company 63, November 15 Engine Company 65, July 20 Engine Company 69, September 25 Engine Company 92, November 6 Engine Company 80, July 17 Engine Company 95, September 23 Engine Company 97, November 30 Engine Company 88, Engine Company 166, September 16 Engine Company 206, July 7 and July 12 Engine Company 217, September 7 November 12 and November 30 Engine Company 93, July 13 Engine Company 233, September 5 Engine Company 231, November 30 Engine Company 151, Engine Company 235, September 13 Engine Company 255, November 5 July 2 and July 24 Engine Company 236, September 26 Engine Company 257, November 12 Engine Company 227, July 31 Engine Company 243, Engine Company 258, November 20 Engine Company 236, July 27 September 4 and September 12 Engine Company 260, November 23 Engine Company 254, July 14 Engine Company 254, September 1 Engine Company 264, November 3 Squad Company 270, July 31 Engine Company 255, September 20 Engine Company 268, November 1 Engine Company 274, July 22 Engine Company 257, September 6 Engine Company 274, Engine Company 289, July 20 Engine Company 271, September 13 November 10 and November 25 Engine Company 307, July 9 Engine Company 275, September 19 Engine Company 285, November 5 Engine Company 309, July 6 Engine Company 283, September 2 Engine Company 286, November 2 Engine Company 313, July 17 Engine Company 312, September 5 Engine Company 298, November 19 Engine Company 316, July 31 Engine Company 317, September 17 Engine Company 306, November 27 Engine Company 320, September 2 Engine Company 310, November 12 August 2010 Engine Company 324, September 11 Engine Company 317, November 13 Engine Company 4, August 13 Engine Company 318, November 9 Squad Company 18, August 18 October 2010 Engine Company 319, November 20 Engine Company 74, August 20 Engine Company 1, October 18 Engine Company 323, November 26 Engine Company 91, August 31 Engine Company 3, October 15 Engine Company 324, November 24 Engine Company 214, August 15 Engine Company 4, October 19 Engine Company 229, August 17 Engine Company 5, October 6 December 2010 Engine Company 235, August 15 Engine Company 45, October 11 Engine Company 7, December 6 Engine Company 246, August 19 Engine Company 46, October 14 Engine Company 8, Engine Company 248, August 26 Engine Company 54, October 5 December 4 and December 9 Engine Company 253, August 26 Engine Company 69, October 21 Squad Company 18, December 31 Engine Company 266, August 21 Engine Company 76, October 17 Engine Company 22, Engine Company 271, August 6 Engine Company 227, October 12 December 14 and December 21 Engine Company 274, August 5 Engine Company 242, October 19 Engine Company 23, December 26 Engine Company 279, August 16 Engine Company 245, October 26 Engine Company 24, December 17 Engine Company 283, August 10 Engine Company 251, October 25 Engine Company 71, December 13 Engine Company 289, August 23 Engine Company 262, October 13 Engine Company 92, December 6 Engine Company 294, August 3 Engine Company 96, December 5 Engine Company 301, August 8 Engine Company 97, December 30 Engine Company 307, August 24 Engine Company 154, December 2 Engine Company 319, August 5 Engine Company 159, December 31 Engine Company 202, December 26 Engine Company 220, December 26 Engine Company 225, December 13 Engine Company 255, December 8 Engine Company 283, December 13 Engine Company 290, December 2 Engine Company 292, December 14 Engine Company 297, December 19 Engine Company 305, December 9 Engine Company 308, December 21 Engine Company 312, December 9 Engine Company 324, December 2

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 57 2010 Pre-Hospital Save Awards

Number in parentheses indicates multiple saves.

Paramedic Faisel Abed (2) EMT Netta Bedassie Lieutenant Steven Cameron (2) EMT Karina Costantin EMT Annabell Abreu EMT Petula Bedeau EMT Michelle Campbell (4) Lieutenant Anthony Cozzino Paramedic Roberto Abril Paramedic Jagmeet Bedi (4) Paramedic Desiree Camporeale Paramedic James Crispino (2) Paramedic Alex Acevedo Paramedic Leonardo Bedoya (3) EMT John Capunay (2) EMT Edward Crowley EMT Samuel Ackerman Paramedic Eduardo Belgrave EMT Jorge Carbonell EMT Kiesha Crutchfield EMT Pedro Acosta (2) Paramedic Daniel Bellingham (2) Lieutenant Michael Carboni (2) EMT Emilio Cruz Paramedic Wilbert Acosta (3) Paramedic Jose Benitez (2) EMT Henry Carey Paramedic Jose Cruz (3) Paramedic Elizabeth Acosta-Rayos Lieutenant Carol Benjamin Lieutenant Linda Carlson (2) EMT Rebecca Cruz (2) EMT Devon Adams Paramedic Kimberly Benson (2) Paramedic Stephen Carpenter EMT Yeny Cruz Paramedic Samantha Aguirre EMT George Bergen, Jr. (2) EMT Holly Carr EMT Henry Cuba EMT Hasnie Ahmetaj (2) Captain Mitchell Berkowitz EMT Patrick Carrigan Paramedic Michael Cumberbatch Paramedic Keith Ahrens (2) EMT Victor Berrios (2) Paramedic Daryl Carroll Lieutenant Sean Cunniffe Lieutenant Nicholas Aiello (4) Paramedic Richard Berroa EMT Mark Carroll (2) EMT Desmond Cunningham, Jr. Paramedic Jeanne Aikins (2) Paramedic Joseph Bevilacqua EMT Kenneth Carter EMT Owen Cunningham EMT Thomas Akerberg Lieutenant Christopher Bilz Lieutenant Richard Casaletto (2) Paramedic Stephen Curiale (3) Lieutenant Rosemarie Alabrandi EMT Prabhleen Bindra Lieutenant Elizabeth Cascio EMT Peter Curry EMT Richard Alavarces (2) EMT Dave Blanchard EMT Sidney Castiblanco Lieutenant Timothy Cusack (3) Paramedic Joseph Albo (3) Paramedic Nadra Blelis (2) EMT Ruben Castillo Paramedic Joseph Daly EMT Edwin Aldrich, III Paramedic Conor Bliss (2) EMT Nancy Castro EMT Nicholas Damante Paramedic Ashley Alejo Lieutenant Jorge Blondett (3) Lieutenant Andre Catapano Paramedic Jonathan Damato Lieutenant Rosemarie Alibrandi EMT Abdul Boddington Paramedic James Cavaliere Paramedic Mary D’Angelo EMT Alexis Alicea EMT Kenneth Bogle Paramedic Marcos Cavallo EMT Errol Daniels (2) Paramedic Richard Alicea (2) Paramedic William Bohr Lieutenant Cemal Cengiz (3) Lieutenant James Darnowski (6) Lieutenant Richard Allas Paramedic James Bolger (2) Paramedic Chin-Shan Chan Lieutenant Kevin Darnowski Paramedic Rowan Allen (2) EMT Adolfo Bonafoux (2) EMT Kai Chan (2) Paramedic Christopher D’Auria (2) EMT Daniel Almandoz (2) Paramedic Richard Bonet (2) Paramedic Marvin Chan EMT Kerry David (2) Paramedic Anthony Almojera (2) Paramedic Kenold Bonhomme Lieutenant Mark Chaplan EMT Kenneth Davis EMT Jean Altidor Paramedic Ferdinand Bonifacio (3) Paramedic Pierre Charboneau (5) Paramedic Sorffly Davius Paramedic John-Paul Alvarez Lieutenant Mark Bonilla (12) EMT Steven Chasan Captain Carolyn Deevy Lieutenant Rae Ammirati (2) Division Chief James Booth Captain Richard Chatterton Captain Anthony DeGennaro (2) Lieutenant Lawrence Anderson Lieutenant Frank Borello EMT Ruth Chavez Paramedic Jesus Deinnocentiis EMT Guillermo Andrade Paramedic Alexis Borkowski EMT Thomas Checco Lieutenant Gilbert DeJesus (2) Paramedic Aren Andreasian (2) Paramedic Jose Borrero Paramedic Francisco Checo (2) EMT Dawn Delgado (2) Paramedic Timothy Anson EMT Antoinette Bovell Jonas Paramedic Chin-Shan Chen Paramedic Jordwin Delrosario (3) EMT Rowland Aquino Paramedic Schyler Boyd (3) Paramedic Kenny Cheng (3) Lieutenant Christopher DeLuca (2) Lieutenant Carlos Ariza (2) Lieutenant Tonya Boyd-Jones (2) Paramedic Rondell Chester Lieutenant Michael DeMarco (2) Paramedic Miriam Arnold Captain Edward Bradley Paramedic Jason Cheung (3) Paramedic Christopher Demott EMT Winston Arnold Paramedic Shane Brady Paramedic Timothy Chiarel (2) EMT Joseph Denapoli Lieutenant Lloyd Arscott (3) Paramedic Kevin Bratholt EMT John Chiarovano (2) EMT Peyton Dennis EMT Alejandro Arzeno (2) EMT James Bremen (2) EMT Brandon Chin Paramedic Brian DePalma EMT Sharon Assis EMT Andre Bristol Paramedic Cynthia Chin (2) Paramedic Maureen Deptola Paramedic Ulya Atilgan-Quesada Paramedic Benjamin Briu EMT Frank Cicciarello Paramedic Brian Desantis (3) Paramedic Howard Auerbach EMT Nicholas Broadbent EMT Anastasius Cielto Paramedic Anthony Desir EMT Steven Aumoithe EMT Andrew Brock Paramedic Michael Cilento Paramedic Kathleen Devanyes (2) Paramedic Freddy Aviles Paramedic Telina Brock Lieutenant Rafael Cintron (5) EMT Christopher Devine Lieutenant Gilberto Aviles Paramedic Keisha Brockington Paramedic Edward Clarke EMT Ramon Diaz Paramedic Angel Ayala EMT Keith Buccieri Captain Lizette Claro (4) Paramedic Kevin Difiore EMT Arzu Aydogdu EMT Ronald Bulaclac Paramedic Johana Clerge (2) EMT Matthew Digiulio EMT Babacar Ba EMT Tyeisha Burgess Paramedic Trevor Coleman Lieutenant Patrick Dillon EMT Benjamin Badillo EMT Daniel Burgos Paramedic Dwaynne Coley Lieutenant John Paul Dimen (3) EMT Robert Baer Lieutenant David Burke Paramedic John Comerford Paramedic Trinh Dinh Lieutenant Edgar Baez (3) EMT Anthony Burrell (2) EMT Steven Conboy EMT William Dipietra EMT Anthony Baiocco (2) EMT Jazmin Burrell (2) Paramedic Arthur Concepcion Lieutenant Timothy Dluhos (2) Paramedic Isaiah Baker (2) EMT Katrina Buyund EMT Michael Condon EMT Jean Dominique (2) Paramedic Felicia Bangura (2) Paramedic Damien Byfield EMT Thomas Conforti Paramedic George Doremus (2) EMT Xiaotian Bao EMT Alex Byrd Paramedic Andria Connell Paramedic Anselmo Dossantos Paramedic Kenneth Barone EMT James Byrne Paramedic Danielle Connell Paramedic Diane Dos Santos (3) Paramedic Mary Ann Barone EMT Anthony Caban EMT Felix Contreras Lieutenant Erin Doyle (2) Paramedic Jason Bartels EMT Henry Cabrera EMT Julio Contreras Lieutenant Angela Dragotto (3) Paramedic Raymond Bartolomey EMT Victor Cadicamo (3) EMT Joseph Conzo EMT Douglas Drumgo Captain Wayne Baskin (2) Paramedic Carmen Caggiano Captain Louis Cook (3) EMT Ian Dsouza Paramedic Brendan Bass (2) Paramedic Robert Caggiano (2) Lieutenant Luis Coralles EMT Jim Duff Lieutenant Mario Bastidas Paramedic Steven Caggiano (4) Lieutenant Edwin Cordova Lieutenant Richard Dun Lieutenant Moses Bastien (3) EMT Salvatore Caiozza Paramedic Jane Corella Lieutenant William Duncklee Lieutenant Andrew Bates (2) Lieutenant Margaret Calamusa Lieutenant Luis Corrales (2) Lieutenant Andrew Dunn EMT Mark Batista Paramedic Corrielle Caldwell (2) EMT Daniel Cortes (2) Paramedic Jason Durecout EMT Jeremy Bayard Paramedic Pablo Callejas Paramedic Gary Cortes Paramedic Thomas Durkin Lieutenant James Becker (4) EMT Robert Camaj Paramedic Juan Cortes EMT Dustin Dwyer (2)

58 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 EMT Karl Dyckman EMT Sarah Geldard Paramedic Robert Heins (3) Paramedic Steven Kleinberg Lieutenant Michael Earley (4) Lieutenant Victoria Genovese Paramedic Juan Henriquez (3) Lieutenant Kathleen Knuth (2) EMT Christopher Echevarria (4) EMT Gregory Gentile Paramedic Walter Henry EMT David Kocaj EMT Tristen Echols (2) Paramedic James Geronimo EMT Cristobal Hernandez EMT Christian Komondorea Lieutenant Wa-il K. Eldahry Paramedic Julianne Gerrish EMT Jamaal Hickmon (2) Paramedic Jing Kong (3) Paramedic Doraun Ellis Paramedic William Gettens Paramedic Christopher Higgins EMT Erik Korzeniewski EMT Keisha Ellis (2) EMT Dwayne Gilkes Lieutenant Joan Hillgardner (2) Paramedic Ewa Koszowska EMT Sean Emanuel (2) Lieutenant Dave Gill (3) Lieutenant Barret Hirsch (4) EMT David Kowalski EMT Nicholas Emanuele (2) EMT Joseph Ginobbi Paramedic Walter Hochbrueckner Lieutenant George Kroustallis (2) Lieutenant Christopher Emhardt (2) Lieutenant Joseph Gioielli EMT Robert Hockenjos EMT Erik Krozeniewski EMT Robert Emhardt (2) Paramedic Marco Girao EMT Patrick Hodgens Lieutenant Jeff Krulfeifer (3) Lieutenant Kevin Enright Paramedic Annemarie Girgenti EMT Ceasar Holloway Paramedic Jason Kum (3) EMT Watson Entwisle Paramedic Erlis Gjyrezi Paramedic Simon Holyland (2) Paramedic Franklin Kupferberg Lieutenant Thomas Eppinger Lieutenant Abraham Glatzer (2) Captain Paul Hopper EMT Douglas Laico Lieutenant Richard Erdey (5) Lieutenant Michael Glenn Paramedic David Hovestadt Paramedic Jowaheer Lall Paramedic Francisco Espadas EMT John Glover EMT Chih Kai Hu EMT Frank Laurino EMT Jeffrey Espinal EMT Don Goepfert Paramedic Joseph Hudak (3) Lieutenant Nicole Lawrence EMT Jimmy Espinosa Paramedic Erica Golino (2) Paramedic Charles Huggins EMT Jason Lazar Paramedic Josette Esquivias (3) Paramedic Alexander Gomez (3) EMT Steven Hughes (2) Lieutenant Gaetano Lazzara (7) EMT Mark Estick (3) EMT Carlos Gonzalez Lieutenant Paige Humphries EMT Johnathon Leavy Lieutenant Albert Estrada Paramedic Daniel Gonzalez Paramedic Robert Hunt Paramedic Juan Lebron (2) Paramedic John Evans EMT Edward Gonzalez EMT William Hunt Paramedic David Lee EMT Sarah Evans Paramedic Enrique Gonzalez (2) Paramedic Lee Hyo Gap Paramedic Gilbert Lee Paramedic John Eyzaguirre (4) Paramedic Jason Gonzalez EMT Peter Inglis (2) EMT Shijae Lee Paramedic McDonald Eze EMT Dave Goodman EMT James Ingram Paramedic William Lehmann Paramedic Joseph Farrell EMT Daryl Goodridge (2) EMT Barbara Irizarry EMT Dwight Leitch (2) Paramedic Joseph Fazzino (2) EMT Mac Gottlieb EMT Irma Irizarry (3) Paramedic Katty LeJarde EMT Kimberly Fazziola Paramedic Kahlia Graham Paramedic Matt Jachyra (2) EMT Thomas Leonard (3) Lieutenant David Fein Paramedic Marcio EMT Aman-Re Jack Paramedic Vito Leone Paramedic Harvey Feintuch Grano De Oro (2) Paramedic Christian Jackson (2) Paramedic Bart Leseur Paramedic Christopher Paramedic Feliks Granovskiy (2) EMT Curtis Jackson EMT Thomas Leto (2) Feliciano (2) EMT Blauri Graterol EMT Melissa Jackson EMT Jeffrey Levine EMT Domingo Feliciano EMT Raz-Giem Graves Lieutenant Peter Jakubowski EMT Christopher Lewis EMT Samuel Fernandez EMT William Graziano EMT Sonia James-Raju EMT Maurice Lewis Paramedic Ray Ferreira (4) EMT Michael Greco Paramedic Dennis Jamieson (2) EMT Rosa Lewis EMT Sherri Fiebert (2) EMT Jason Greibesland EMT James Januszkiewicz EMT Justin Licari Lieutenant Brett Fields (2) Lieutenant Karen Grohl Lieutenant Joseph Jefferson EMT Josue Liciano Paramedic Jerry Figueroa (2) Paramedic Eric Gruarin Lieutenant Walter Jehle Paramedic Justin Lim Lieutenant Thomas Finn Paramedic Sheng Gu Paramedic Kevin Jennings Paramedic Justin Lin (2) Division Chief Michael Fitton EMT Carlos Guadron (2) EMT Marcus Jerome EMT Zhang Kai Lin Paramedic Stanislav Flaksman (3) EMT John Guarisco (2) EMT Jerome Jewet (2) Deputy Chief Stephen Lincke (6) Paramedic Vince Flood (2) Deputy Chief Geraldine Guarneri EMT Estarlin Jimenez Paramedic Kay Lincoln Paramedic Ernst Floreal Lieutenant Julie Guevara (4) Lieutenant Andrew Johnson Lieutenant Timothy Lindblom (2) Lieutenant Charles Flores Paramedic Roland Guirand, Jr. Lieutenant Marietta Johnson (2) EMT Christina Lindie (2) Paramedic Miguel Flores (4) EMT Aston Guobadia EMT Michael Johnson Paramedic Christopher Lipkin (2) Paramedic Serafin Flores (2) Paramedic Garry Gurrier EMT Nyasha Johnson (2) Paramedic Alexander Lipsitt Paramedic Richard Flower EMT Aartha Gutierrez EMT Ronald Johnson Paramedic Maureen Little Paramedic Gregory Floyd Lieutenant Luis Gutierrez (2) Lieutenant Stephen Johnson Paramedic Carlos Lizcano Lieutenant Patrick Flynn (4) Paramedic Matthew Guttilla (2) Paramedic Angela Jones Paramedic Cris Loguidice Lieutenant Patricia Foley EMT Cecil Guy EMT Vanchella Jones EMT Lissette Loledo EMT Bruce Fonseca (2) Paramedic Richard Guzman Lieutenant Wayne Jones (2) EMT Harold Long EMT Paul Forte Lieutenant Bruce Haas (2) Paramedic Willie Jones (2) EMT Valerie Longo Paramedic Jonathan Forti Lieutenant Andrew Haber EMT Suzette Jordan Lieutenant Carlos Lopez (2) EMT Nedia Fougere Captain Howard Hahn (3) Paramedic Alexis Joseph Paramedic Hoover Lopez (3) EMT Kathy Ann Francis Paramedic Andrew Haley (2) Paramedic Nathalie Joseph (4) EMT John Lopez EMT Jewel Fraser (2) Lieutenant Elise Hanlon (3) Paramedic Tracy Joseph (2) Paramedic Lisa Lopez (2) Paramedic Katherine Frawley Paramedic Jennifer Hannafey Paramedic Sean Josten (2) Paramedic Luis Lopez (2) EMT Tyrell Frazier Lieutenant Thomas Hannan (2) EMT Philip Jugenheimer Paramedic Michael Loscalzo EMT Albert Fredericks EMT Nicholas Hansen Paramedic Winsley Julien Paramedic Joseph Losquadro EMT Stephanie French Paramedic Benjamin Harris (2) Lieutenant Michael Kaiser (3) Lieutenant Edward Loss (6) Lieutenant Mitchell Friedland Lieutenant Charles Harris Paramedic Aleksander Kaplan EMT Mwalimu Lovelace Paramedic Joshua Frumer (2) EMT Darren Harris Lieutenant David Karic EMT Brendan Lovett (4) Lieutenant James Furlong (5) EMT Samuel Harris EMT Thomas Kartelias EMT Edward Lowe Paramedic Carlo Gabrielli (2) EMT Tameka Harris EMT Daniel Keegan (2) EMT Edwin Lozada EMT Japhet Gaengan (2) EMT Bevonia Harrison Paramedic Robert Kelly EMT Antonio Lucero EMT Vincent Gagliardo EMT Winslow Harrison EMT Michael Kenney EMT Jessica Lunden EMT Andy Galagarza EMT Ahmetaj Hasnie EMT Ofir Keren (2) EMT Robert Lynch Lieutenant Scott Galletta Paramedic Salwa Hassan EMT Julie Keshemberg EMT Dennis Machtel EMT Daneroy Gallimore (2) EMT Kimberly Hattan (2) Paramedic Alexander Khalef Lieutenant Elizabeth Mackiewicz EMT Alfredo Garcia Captain Kevin Haugh Paramedic Adil Khalid EMT Vashala Madho Paramedic Christian Garcia Paramedic Richard Hawkins Paramedic David Kher Paramedic Nicholas Magro EMT Juan Garcia EMT Krystal Hayes EMT Yuriy Khurin EMT Aly Mahmod Lieutenant Maria Garcia EMT Michael Healey Lieutenant Scott Kiernan (5) Paramedic Christopher Mahoney (2) Lieutenant Joseph Gasparini (3) EMT Lori Hecker Paramedic Michael King Paramedic Sean Mahoney Paramedic Alfredo Gaw Paramedic John Heer (2) EMT Shaun King Paramedic Allen Maikels

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 59 EMT Ralph Maisonneuve (2) Lieutenant Anthony Miranda EMT Sharay Paige Paramedic William Razenson (2) Paramedic Mario Maldonado EMT Yaniri Miranda EMT Janice Palencia (2) Lieutenant Bonnie Regan EMT Orlando Malinay Paramedic Justin Miro (2) EMT Delphena Panton (2) EMT Dennis Rehberger (2) Paramedic Ralph Mangrella (4) EMT Daniel Mitchell Paramedic McCray Parchment Paramedic Mark Reilly EMT James Manti (2) EMT Shawna Mitchell EMT Nestor Paredes EMT Christopher Respol EMT William Marchese EMT Fritz Moise EMT Hanifa Parris (2) EMT Scott Rest (3) Paramedic Steve Marino EMT Gladimyr Moise Paramedic Greg Partch, Jr. EMT Carlos Reyes Lieutenant David Marks (3) Paramedic Thomas Monahan, Sr. EMT Matthew Pascale (2) Paramedic Daniel Riccobono (3) Paramedic Julio Marrero Lieutenant Norberto Monell (2) Lieutenant Anthony Pascarella Lieutenant William Rich (8) Lieutenant Michael Mars EMT Louis Montalvo Paramedic Christian Pasco (2) Lieutenant Matthew Rightmyer (2) EMT Robert Martell EMT Keith Moon EMT Patrick Pascullo Paramedic Cesar Rios EMT Keith Martin (2) Lieutenant William Moore (2) Lieutenant Joseph Pastor (2) EMT William Ritter Paramedic Michael Martin Lieutenant Angelo Morales (2) Lieutenant Joseph Pataky EMT Agatha Rivera (3) EMT James Martinez Paramedic Daryl Morales (2) EMT Jake Pate EMT Brian Rivera Paramedic Orlando Martinez EMT Isaiah Morales Lieutenant Raymond Patterson EMT Cynthia Rivera EMT Anthony Marullo, Jr. Paramedic Jose Morales (2) Lieutenant Yunek Paul EMT Josiah Rivera Paramedic Daniel Mathieu EMT Michael Morales EMT Anthony Paulino Paramedic Michael Rivera (2) Paramedic Eric Matonis (3) EMT Ivan Moreau Paramedic Fernando Payamps (3) EMT Nelson Rivera EMT Frank Maynard Paramedic Julie Moreland Paramedic Abel Payero Paramedic Rosa Rivera EMT John Mayrose EMT Michael Morstatt (2) Paramedic Larry Payne EMT Allen Rizzo Lieutenant Kevin Mazuzan Paramedic Michael Motley Paramedic Joseph Pelicano (3) EMT Raeshon Roberson Paramedic Daniel Mboh Paramedic Farooq Muhammad (3) Paramedic Maximo Pena Paramedic Earl Roberts EMT James McCabe Lieutenant Martha Muriel (2) Paramedic Clifton Pennie Lieutenant Timothy Roberts (3) Lieutenant Lawrence McCalla Lieutenant Donald Murphy (2) Lieutenant Esmerelda Pepper EMT Christopher Robertson Paramedic Charles McCarren Lieutenant James Murphy EMT Elizabeth Perez (2) Paramedic Taisha Robinson (2) Lieutenant Michael McCarthy EMT Nora Murphy EMT Francis Perez Lieutenant Miguel Roche (4) Paramedic Thomas McCarthy EMT Samuel Murray EMT Frank Perez EMT Arnaldo Rodriguez EMT Michael McCauley (2) Paramedic Said Mustafa EMT Jose Perez (6) Paramedic Dennis Rodriguez Paramedic John McConnell (2) Lieutenant Ralph Mustillo Lieutenant Osvaldo Perez EMT Franklin Rodriguez EMT Michael McConville (3) Paramedic Donald Mycoosing EMT Tina Perez Paramedic George Rodriguez EMT Thomas McCormick EMT Salvatore Namio (4) Paramedic Jeannie Perrone EMT Jeanine Rodriguez Paramedic James McCue Captain Andrea EMT Kelly Peters Paramedic Craig Roeder Paramedic James McDale Nanna-Montgomery EMT Ilya Petevka Paramedic Lionel Roman Paramedic Eze McDonald Paramedic Carlo Napoleon (2) Lieutenant Jon Phelan (3) EMT Ruben Romano Paramedic Sean McGrath Paramedic Daniel Napoletano (3) EMT Timothy Phillips Paramedic Corey Romanowski EMT Cullen McGraw Paramedic Christopher Natoli Paramedic Latasha Pierre EMT Edgar Romero Paramedic James McGuire EMT John Naughton Paramedic Andre Pierre-Louis Lieutenant Douglas Rondon EMT Timothy McGurk Lieutenant Alfred Navaro EMT Leslie Pignataro EMT Roberto Rosa EMT James McHugh Paramedic Jonathan Negron EMT Carlos Pilliza Lieutenant Thomas Rosa (2) Paramedic Charles McKeon (2) EMT Rebecca Negron EMT James Pione EMT Richard Rosado EMT Kevin McKeon Paramedic Mancuso Neil Paramedic Jeanne Pirrone Paramedic Edgar Rosales Lieutenant Charles McLaughlin Lieutenant Walter Nelson EMT Adam Piscitello Paramedic Jerri Rosati (3) EMT Reginald McLaurin EMT Nacel Nemorin Paramedic Ivan Placido (2) Paramedic John Rosati Paramedic Tyrone McLune EMT Lisa Nesbitt EMT Kostadinov Plamen Lieutenant Anthony Rosiello (2) EMT Christopher McManus Paramedic Kenneth Newman (2) Lieutenant Edmund Platt (2) EMT Vanessa Ross EMT Michael McNally Paramedic Ray Nirrengarten (2) Paramedic Brian Plunkett Lieutenant Scott Rothschild Paramedic Charles McNeil (2) EMT Andy Nunez Paramedic Bernard Pogrebinsky Captain Robert Rousso (2) Lieutenant Joe McWilliams (5) EMT Ryan Ocampo EMT Karen Polanco EMT John Rugen EMT Chalin Medina Paramedic Vanessa Ocasio Lieutenant Lawrence Pontrelli (2) EMT Adam Ruiz Paramedic Francisco Medina Lieutenant Vincent Occhipinti Paramedic Grzegorz Portka Paramedic Edward Ruiz Captain Rudy Medina Paramedic Jason Ochoa (2) Lieutenant Michael Potasso (2) EMT Richard Ruiz (2) Paramedic Michael Melas (2) Paramedic Joseph O’Farrell Paramedic Victor Potito Paramedic Dean Russell EMT Manuel Melendez EMT Kevin O’Hara EMT Baldeo Prahlad Paramedic George Russo (2) Paramedic Byron Melo EMT Curtis Oliver EMT Joseph Prebish Captain Stephen Russo Paramedic Jason Mendelsohn (2) Paramedic Makesi Oliver Lieutenant Robin Printy (2) Paramedic Alison Russo-Elling (2) Paramedic John Mendez Paramedic Gerson Olivo (2) EMT Brian Prior Paramedic Brendan Ryan (2) Paramedic Redwin Mendez Lieutenant Bryan O’Malley EMT Janet Puente EMT Nicolas Sacco EMT Dewey Mendonca EMT Meleki O’Neal Lieutenant Jeffrey Quigley (2) Lieutenant Jason Saffon (2) Paramedic Onoria Mercado EMT Michael O’Neil (2) Paramedic Antonio Quinones EMT Djohnny Saint Louis EMT Raul Mercado Paramedic Patrick O’Neil EMT Tracey Quinonez (2) Paramedic Louis Saint-Surin Paramedic William Meringolo Paramedic William Oneill (2) Paramedic Eddie Radovic (3) Paramedic Favian Salazar Paramedic Kerry Merkel (2) EMT Frantz Oriol Paramedic Rezaur Rahman Paramedic Parisa Salem Lieutenant Lawrence Messina (2) EMT Christopher Orlik (2) Paramedic Usman Rahyab Paramedic Salim Abdul Salim Lieutenant Edward Meyer EMT Kimberly Ororke Paramedic Kevin Ramdayal Lieutenant Marc Samuels EMT Michael Meyer Paramedic Eric Orth Lieutenant Rafael Ramirez (5) EMT Michael Sanchez EMT Yaniri Mianda EMT Joel Ortiz Paramedic Ryan Ramjas (2) Paramedic Matthew Sanfilippo Paramedic Alexandru Mihailescu EMT John Ortiz EMT Roberto Ramon EMT Fabio Santana Lieutenant Joanne Miller (2) EMT Jose Ortiz EMT David Ramos EMT Josette Santana EMT Johnny Miller (2) Lieutenant Norman Ortiz EMT Gilbert Ramos Paramedic Jason Santiago (2) Paramedic Latisha Miller (2) Paramedic Ferry Oscar Lieutenant Manuel Ramos Paramedic Nicolas Santini (2) Paramedic Matthew Miller (2) Paramedic Niall O’Shaughnessy (3) EMT Vijay Rampersad Lieutenant Vincent Santoiemma (2) Paramedic William Miller (4) EMT Jennifer Oster EMT Eric Randolph Paramedic Kathleen Santora EMT James Mills Paramedic Eric Ozechowski EMT Kenneth Rau EMT Ricardo Santos Paramedic Adam Minkow (2) Paramedic Julio Padilla Paramedic Charles Raynor (2) Paramedic Lupin Sara

60 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 EMT Andrew Savage (2) Paramedic Kelvin Smith Paramedic Gerardo Toyloy Lieutenant Scott Waryold (2) EMT Darryl Savoca EMT Michael Smith Lieutenant George Trager Paramedic Charles Washington EMT Thomas Scala Paramedic Richard Smith (3) Paramedic Michael Travers Lieutenant Jason Waszmer Paramedic Robert Scanlon EMT Garfield Smythe Paramedic Michael Triolo Paramedic Todd Weber (2) Paramedic Steven Scarinzi Paramedic Ervin Sobiev Paramedic Timothy Troeber (2) Captain Robert Weihs (4) EMT Michael Schafer Paramedic Magdalena Sobocinski EMT Noel Trowers (2) Paramedic Stuart Weinstein (2) Paramedic Conrad Schbauer EMT Jose Solis Paramedic William Truoccolo Paramedic Rebecca Weisman Paramedic Jonathan Schecter Paramedic Robert Sottile Paramedic William Tung (2) Lieutenant Darren Wetsell (2) Paramedic Allen Schildgen (2) EMT Marie-Nicole Souffrant EMT Salvatore Turturici Paramedic Alwain White EMT Donna Schulz Paramedic Jason Spandorf EMT Erica Ucciardino EMT Dana White EMT Kouassi Schumann (2) Lieutenant Philip Spiro EMT Heidi Umpierre Captain John Wieland EMT Douglas Schuster EMT Alyssa Spooner EMT Amanda Uster Lieutenant Kyle Wigglesworth Lieutenant James Scordus (2) EMT Cindy Stewart EMT Peter Vacarro Paramedic Morgan Wilding EMT Funk Scott EMT Robert Strafer (4) Lieutenant Andre Valdez (2) Paramedic Peter Wilken (2) Lieutenant Kiernan Scott EMT Cody Stramberger EMT Juan Valencia Paramedic Horace Williams Paramedic Linda Scott EMT June Straughn EMT Erick Valentin Lieutenant Najja Williams (2) EMT Norman Scott (3) EMT Ashley Strevy McDonald EMT Norman Valle Paramedic Sebastian Williams EMT Richard Seaberry EMT Kevin Stringfield EMT Joseph Vandemark (2) EMT Sedley Williams EMT Kimoi Sealy-Brown EMT Junior Stvil EMT Mary Vanicky EMT Tara Williams Paramedic Andre Segovia, Jr. Paramedic Evan Suchecki EMT Roy Vasquez EMT Brian Wilson EMT Betzaida Serrano EMT Deo Sukhu (3) Paramedic John Vaval EMT Rohan Wilson Paramedic Erika Serrano Captain John Sullivan EMT Charles Vega Lieutenant Craig Wing (6) EMT Morgan Setorie Lieutenant Milton Sylman (2) EMT Margaret Vega Paramedic Asher Winik Paramedic Olashawna Seymore EMT Thomas Szczerba EMT Frank Vela EMT Jason Withers (2) EMT Stanley Shakir EMT Alvin Taylor (2) EMT Teodoro Velazquez EMT Paul Wizelius EMT Chunghing Sham Paramedic Christopher Taylor (3) Paramedic Robert Velenzi Lieutenant Stewart Wolf (3) Lieutenant Barry Shapiro (5) EMT Keith Taylor (2) EMT Elvis Velez (3) Paramedic William Wolf Paramedic Ajay Sharma (3) Paramedic Mark Taylor EMT Paula Velez (2) EMT Danny Wong EMT Kimberly Sharpe EMT Orville Temple EMT Kim Versheck Paramedic Patrick Worms Lieutenant Michael Sheridan (2) EMT Adrian Theobald Paramedic Jason Verspoor (2) Paramedic Colin Wright EMT Joseph Siciliano Lieutenant Thoywell Thomas Captain Michael Vetack Paramedic Mingze Wu (2) EMT Thomas Siciliano Paramedic Mario Thompkins (2) Paramedic Rachel Victor Paramedic Skerdi Ymeraj Deputy Chief Howard Sickles Lieutenant Donna Tiberi (2) Paramedic Phillip Villafane Lieutenant Joseph Yolles Paramedic Edmond Signer Lieutenant Leonard Tiberi (2) EMT Anthony Villanueva (2) Paramedic Arthur Young Paramedic Kenneth Silas (2) EMT Beth Tichman (2) Paramedic Guillermo Villaverde EMT Wayne Young Paramedic Arnold Silva (2) EMT Robert Tiegen (2) Paramedic Charles Vitale (2) Paramedic Anlo Yu Paramedic Roberto Silveira EMT Vanessa Tineo Lieutenant Tony Voxakis EMT Kenny Yu Paramedic Gary Simmonds EMT Beth Tishman EMT Shamika Waldron Paramedic Andrey Yuabov (5) Paramedic Stephen Simon EMT Lissette Toledo EMT Mark Walker (3) Lieutenant Paul Yunek (6) Lieutenant Derrick Simpkins (2) Paramedic Michael Toomey (3) EMT Niecia Walker Paramedic Roman Yusupov EMT Rajbir Singh Paramedic Alberto Torres Lieutenant Vincent Walla (2) Paramedic Camejo Zaith Paramedic Edmond Singner EMT Camalia Torres Lieutenant Kathleen Walsh EMT Mohmedris Zanpawala EMT William Slavik (2) EMT Yelitza Torres EMT Michael Walsh Paramedic Eugeni Zenkovich Paramedic Gary Smiley EMT Anthony Tortorici Lieutenant Robert Walsh (4) Lieutenant Joeel Zepeda (3) Lieutenant Brian Smith Paramedic Stephen Tortoriello EMT Shawna Walsh EMT Zheng Zhang Paramedic Hugh Smith EMT Mourad Touati Paramedic Chuen Wang Paramedic Chris Zinnel EMT John Smith Lieutenant Debra Towers EMT William Warr Paramedic Marvin Zuniga

EMS Unit of the Month--2010

Month Unit Members January 31C3 EMTs Raheam Jones, Edward Primo, Steven Seymour February 41D2 EMTs Rafael Torres, Anthony Trabolse, Franklin Trabucco March 23D3 EMTs George Bergen, Patrick Hodgens, Ronald McCue April 16D2 EMTs Terrence Moore, Rafael Muniz, John Pike May 49B1 EMTs John Marino, Michael Meyer, Jose Ortiz June 43V3 Paramedics William Gettens, Sara Lupin, Evgeni Zenkovich July 58D3 EMTs John Cook, Darryl Savoca, Marso Sully August 57A3 EMTs Daniel Cotter, James McHugh, Andrew Savage September 38S2 Paramedics Doraun Ellis, Brendan Ryan, Allen Schildgen October 39D2 EMTs Kenneth Barriteau, Abdul Boddington, Bevonia Harrison November 58G3 EMTs Jonathan Disilvestro, Gregory Saint Clair, Terrence Sykes December 49H3 EMTs Pedro Acosta, Paul Forte, Dennis Rehberger

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 61 UNIT CITATIONS Engine Company 63 Ladder Company 56 Engine Company 5 July 4, 2008 Box 3886 April 1, 2010 Box 3370 July 8, 2010 Box 44-404

Engine Company 243 Engine Company 67 Ladder Company 120 March 7, 2009 Box 2897 April 7, 2010 Box 1688 July 17, 2010 Box 75-1673

Ladder Company 168 Squad Company 1 Ladder Company 58 March 7, 2009 Box 2897 April 7, 2010 Box 1270 July 18, 2010 Box 2971

Engine Company 273 Ladder Company 122 Ladder Company 4 October 26, 2009 Box 4319 April 7, 2010 Box 1270 July 23, 2010 Box 872

Ladder Company 129 Ladder Company 8 Engine Company 53 October 26, 2009 Box 4319 April 11, 2010 Box 77-259 July 28, 2010 Box 1303

Engine Company 283 Engine Company 22 Ladder Company 43 December 7, 2009 Box 22-1605 April 22, 2010 Box 22-1097 July 28, 2010 Box 1303

Rescue Company 4 Engine Company 54 Engine Company 1 December 8, 2009 Box 0500 May 1, 2010 Box 814 August 9, 2010 Box 22-596

Squad Company 288 Ladder Company 4 Ladder Company 41 December 8, 2009 Box 0500 May 1, 2010 Box 814 August 10, 2010 Box 75-3075

Ladder Company 79 Ladder Company 48 Ladder Company 36 January 17, 2010 Box 22-546 May 1, 2010 Box 75-2365 August 22, 2010 Box 22-1796

Ladder Company 168 Rescue Company 3 Engine Company 235 January 30, 2010 Box 2890 May 9, 2010 Box 75-2309 August 30, 2010 Box 22-963

Ladder Company 176 Squad Company 41 Ladder Company 132 February 3, 2010 Box 858 May 9, 2010 Box 75-2309 August 30, 2010, Box 22-963

Engine Company 64 Engine Company 94 Engine Company 225 February 10, 2010 Box 75-2852 May 11, 2010 Box 22-2431 August 30, 2010 Box 75-1856

Ladder Company 41 Engine Company 260 Squad Company 41 February 15, 2010 Box 75-3402 May 14, 2010 Box 7386 September 14, 2010, Box 2109

Ladder Company 32 Ladder Company 116 Ladder Company 58 February 15, 2010 Box 75-3402 May 14, 2010 Box 7386 September 15, 2010 Box 22-3070

Ladder Company 28 Engine Company 96 Engine Company 45 February 16, 2010 Box 1498 May 26, 2010 Box 2604 September 15, 2010 Box 22-3070

Squad Company 41 Rescue Company 1 Engine Company 88 February 20, 2010 Box 22-2173 June 7, 2010 Box 75-619 September 22, 2010 Box 22-3326

Engine Company 73 Ladder Company 174 Engine Company 201 February 20, 2010 Box 22-2173 June 18, 2010 Box 1584 October 16, 2010 Box 22-2667

Engine Company 10 Ladder Company 122 Engine Company 287 February 24, 2010 Box 33-0078 June 22, 2010 Box 75-1273 October 30, 2010 Box 75-7929

Rescue Company 1 Engine Company 95 Ladder Company 147 February 24, 2010 Box 33-0078 July 1, 2010 Box 1831 December 8, 2010 Box 75-2512

Engine Company 255 Ladder Company 36 Ladder Company 136 March 5, 2010 Box 3028 July 1, 2010 Box 1831 December 14, 2010 Box 3129

Ladder Company 158 Haz-Mat Company 1 Ladder Company 154 March 13, 2010 Box 5914 July 6, 2010 Box 8510 December 27, 2010 Box 75-7951

Ladder Company 146 Engine Company 28 Rescue Company 5 March 29, 2010 Box 139 July 8, 2010 Box 44-404 December 31, 2010 Box 75-1014

Ladder Company 174 March 29, 2010 Box 1580

62 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 MEDAL AND AWARD DONORS James Gordon Bennett Medal John H. Prentice Medal Bella Stiefel Medal stablished in 1869 and, for years, it was the his medal is the gift of Mrs. Marion Prentice n Mrs. Stiefel’s 90 years, she came to admire the Esole decoration awarded for valor in the Fire TBrookman in memory of her father. The medal Ibravery displayed by Firefighters. Her last will Department of the City of New York. As a result of is for “an act of intelligent bravery.” First awarded and testament provided for this medal, which first its seniority among medals, it is awarded annually in 1921. (Page 19) was awarded in 1947. The Uniformed Firefighters for the most outstanding act of heroism after the Association funds this award. (Page 28) consideration and deliberate judgment of the mem- Henry D. Brookman Medal ber by the Medal Board of the New York City Fire rs. Marion Prentice Brookman, in making Vincent J. Kane Medal Department. (Page 11) Mthis award possible, wrote, “...to help the his medal is named in honor of the late Vincent authorities in installing into the Department the fact TJ. Kane, labor leader and longtime President of Brooklyn Citizens Medal/ that the service rendered by the Firefighters is of a the Uniformed Firefighters Association. Funded by FF Louis Valentino Award character held in high esteem by the people and to the UFA. (Page 29) n 1896, a committee of Brooklynites endowed perpetuate the old fealty and admiration held by the Ithis medal “to be given to the most deserving late Henry D. Brookman for the FDNY.” First Pulaski Association Medal Firefighter in the Brooklyn Fire Department, as awarded in 1921. (Page 20) irst awarded in 1962 and endowed by the Fire he/she shall be selected by the Fire Department of FDepartment Pulaski Association in memory of the City of New York.” The recipient also is award- M.J. Delehanty Medal Casimir Pulaski. General Pulaski organized ed the Firefighter Louis Valentino Award, a medal he founder and dean of civil service schools American cavalry forces during the Revolutionary endowed/funded since 1998 by Diane Valentino Tbearing his name endowed this medal in 1937, War. He died as a result of wounds received lead- and the Valentino family. (Page 12) “to be awarded annually to a member of the ing the charge at the Battle of Savannah. Presented Department whose distinguished service in the line to the recipient in recognition for upholding the Christopher J. Prescott Medal of duty receives recognition by the Board of Merit Fire Department’s tradition of valor and service to amed in honor of EMT Christopher Prescott, of the Fire Department.” (Page 21) the citizens of the City of New York. (Page 30) Nthe first EMS member to make the Supreme Sacrifice in the line of duty in 1994, the Prescott William F. Conran Medal Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal Medal is the highest honor bestowed upon a mem- onorary Chief Conran endowed this medal in his medal, in honor of Commissioner Edward ber of the Bureau of EMS. Funded by the H1937. His profession of fire protection engi- TThompson, was endowed in 1964 by the late Uniformed EMTs and Paramedics and Fire neer enabled him to improve the efficiency of fire- Bertram Brummer and his wife, Susie. It is to be Inspectors Union. (Page 13) fighting appliances. (Page 22) awarded to a member exhibiting outstanding courage and fidelity. By endowing this, a second Hugh Bonner Medal Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal medal, they illustrate their high regard and affec- amed in honor of Chief Hugh Bonner, “a stal- he Honorable Fiorello H. LaGuardia, while tion for the Department. (Page 31) Nwart Chief of Department who preferred to TMayor, frequently “turned out” at large fires. rule by example.” The medal first was awarded in He had a keen interest in the problems of fire pre- Columbia Association Medal 1897. (Page 14) vention and extinguishment. First awarded in 1937. ndowed by the Columbia Association since (Page 23) E1966. Medal is awarded in memory of retired Honor Legion Medal Fire Marshal Thomas J. Russo, Senior. (Page 32) he Honor Legion is open only to “the bravest of Tracy Allen-Lee Medal Tthe Bravest,” both active and retired. MT Allen-Lee is nationally recognized as the Susan Wagner Medal Prerequisites for membership are confined to Efirst EMS professional in the country to be ndowed by the UFA to honor the memory of Firefighters of all ranks who have received awarded the Public Safety Officer’s Benefit by the EMrs. Susan Wagner, wife of the former Mayor Department recognition and been granted a Class I, United States Department of Justice, Bureau of of the City of New York, and to perpetuate the high II or III award for deeds of valor performed at Justice Assistance, after dying from a communica- esteem in which she held the Firefighters of the imminent risk to their lives. First awarded in 1984 ble disease sustained in the line of duty. Funded by City of New York. This medal is awarded to a and funded by the Honor Legion. (Page 14) the Uniformed EMTs and Paramedics and Fire member of the Department who has performed an Inspectors Union. (Page 24) outstanding act of valor. First awarded in 1966. The Emily Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal UFA also funds this medal in memory of the late hese sisters, in their deed of gift, wrote “...for Chief John J. McElligott Medal/ assemblywoman Eileen Dugan, a prime sponsor of Tthe purpose of encouraging the members of the FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award the Cancer Bill. (Page 33) force in the exercise...of heroic endeavor under cir- amed in honor of the late Chief and Fire cumstances of special danger.” Awarded for the NCommissioner, Chief McElligott. He joined Steuben Association Medal first time in 1899. (Page 15) the Department in 1905 and retired in 1941 after a ndowed by the Steuben Association in honor of long and fruitful career. This medal was endowed EGeneral Frederick Wilhelm Von Steuben. First Thomas E. Crimmins Medal by William F. Conran and first was awarded in awarded in 1967. Funded by the Fire Department irst awarded in 1912. In memory of her father, 1937. Recipient also is awarded the Fitzpatrick and Steuben Association Charities, Inc. (Page 34) FThomas E. Crimmins, contractor, builder, loyal Frisby Award, a medallion endowed by the New Yorker and son of a volunteer Fireman, Mrs. Fitzpatrick and Frisby Foundation, in memory of Chief James Scullion Medal May M. Burke provided in her will for the endow- these two Firefighters who made the Supreme ecognized as a pioneer in his field, Chief ment of the Crimmins Memorial Medal. (Page 16) Sacrifice. The UFA funds this award. (Page 25) RJames Scullion was instrumental in bringing both basic and advanced life support services into Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal Thomas F. Dougherty Medal the modern-day emergency medical system in the onorary Deputy Chief William F. Kenny hief Dougherty served with the Department City of New York in the early 1970s. His dedica- Hendowed this medal in memory of his father, a Cfrom 1888 to 1933 with distinction and honor. tion and commitment to excellence are memorial- Battalion Chief who served in the Department, In addition to inventing the nozzle that bears his ized through this award. (Page 35) faithfully and conspicuously, from 1876 until 1903. name, he was a colorful member of the Fire It is given as a “perpetual token of zeal and endur- College faculty, where he specialized in teaching Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal ing interest.” First awarded in 1918. (Page 17) the technique and efficacy of ventilation. First ndowed in 1975 by the late Dr. J.W. awarded in 1937. (Page 26) EGoldenkranz, Honorary Assistant Chief, to Walter Scott Medal honor “the heroic efforts of the Officers and olonel Walter Scott, a successful New York Albert S. Johnston Medal Firemen, all of whom perform their duties at Cmerchant, was intensely interested in the City’s lbert S. Johnston was a Captain in the New extreme personal risk.” Dr. Goldenkranz was affil- protective forces. In 1920, he endowed a medal for AYork Fire Patrol with a record of 50 years of iated with the FDNY since 1913 and was president valor bearing his name, to be awarded annually to faithful service. Ten years after his retirement in of the New York Firemen’s Cycle Club. Donation a member of the FDNY. (Page 18) 1927, this medal was endowed by William F. also made by Sandy and Terry Sansevero. (Page36) Conran. (Page 27)

FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 63 Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser ndowed/funded in 1977 by the Uniformed Fire dedicated professional with a passion for com- Memorial Medal EOfficers Association “for an act of heroism and Amunications, Lieutenant McElhearn is remem- ndowed/funded by the Uniformed Firefighters bravery performed by a Fire Officer at a fire.” bered for his instrumental involvement in the EAssociation, this medal is named in honor of (Page 37) research and development of the first modern-day Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser, a 20-year veteran Field Communications Unit (FieldComm) for of the FDNY, whose firefighting career was cut Edith B. Goldman Medal EMS. Sponsored by the Uniformed EMS Officers short in 1990 by his untimely death. Firefighter ndowed by the many friends of the late Union. (Page 44) Elsasser was a major contributor to UFA charity EHonorary Deputy Chief Barney Goldman to sporting events. (Page 49) honor the memory of both his wife, Edith, and him New York State Honorary and to illustrate the high regard and affection he Fire Chiefs Association Medal Deputy Commissioner held for FDNY members. First awarded in 1978. he New York State Honorary Fire Chiefs Christine R. Godek Medal (Page 38) TAssociation, Inc., founded in 1950, is an independ- stablished and presented by Honorary Fire ent, non-profit and tax-exempt organization, dedicated ECommissioner Dorothy W. Marks and (now- American Legion Fire Department Post 930/ to promoting the interests of the Firefighters of the State deceased) Honorary First Deputy Commissioner Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Medal of New York. The active Association is affiliated with Shelly Rothman in honor of Christine R. Godek, ndowed by American Legion Post 930, this the New York State Professional Fire Fighters the first female Deputy Fire Commissioner of the Emedal is in memory of Mark M. Wohlfeld, a Association and is celebrating 50 years of volunteer FDNY. Presented annually to an outstanding New lifelong member of the Fire Department Post, a service to the Firefighters of New York and their fami- York City Fire Marshal for unusual display of ini- colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves and a retired lies. The medal, funded by the Association and first tiative, improving techniques, resourcefulness and FDNY Firefighter. The history of this intrepid war- awarded in 1984, is presented every year to a Firefighter capability in the investigation of arson. (Page 50) rior’s exploits is related graphically in the second who has performed with valor. This medal is dedicated and third issues of WNYF (1945). After his retire- to honoring all Firefighters who have performed with William Friedberg Medal ment from the FDNY, he continued to serve his valor. (Page 11) he William Friedberg Medal, presented for the country and his fellow man by working for the Tfirst time in 1996, is named in honor and mem- Veterans Administration. He died on May 24, 1978, Police Honor Legion Medal ory of the late William Friedberg. Bill was a and is interred in Arlington National Cemetery. he Police Honor Legion Medal is endowed by respected and beloved elementary school principal, First awarded in 1979. Donation made in memory Tthe New York City Police Department Honor who spent 33 years working with the children of of Firefighter Eugene “Butch” O’Kane by his fam- Legion. It was first awarded in 1984. Donations are New York City and six years as a member of the ily. (Page 39) made by FM Arthur J. Crawford, FM Dennis H. New York State Industrial Board of Appeals. He Fink and retired Detective James K. Burke. believed that early education and instruction were Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal (Page 45) key to fire prevention. Funded by Mr. Friedberg’s he Laufer Medal, presented for the first time in widow and family. (Page 51) T1980, is named in honor and memory of the late Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal Deputy Chief Arthur J. “Artie” Laufer, who contin- n honor of the memory of FF David J. DeFranco Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal ually showed his love for Firefighters and his fel- Ifor his dedicated efforts on behalf of the FDNY. his medal is dedicated to honoring all low man through his actions. Endowed by the UFA This medal, awarded for a water-related rescue, is TFirefighters who have performed with valor. and the family of retired Deputy Director of presented by the Uniformed Firefighters Awarded for the first time in 2005. Funded by the Dispatch Operations, Joseph E. Higgins, Jr. Association (UFA) in memory of David’s father, FF members of the New York State Honorary Fire (Page 40) Dan DeFranco. FF Dan DeFranco was assigned to Chiefs Association, Inc., and the Fire Bell Club of Engine Co. 17 and Ladder Co. 18 on the lower east New York, in memory of Shelly Rothman, a long- Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal side for more than 33 years during a period of time member and Chairman of the Board of his medal, endowed by the members of the Pipes extremely heavy fire duty. FF Dan DeFranco also Directors. (Page 52) Tand Drums of the FDNY Emerald Society served on the executive board of the UFA for eight Bagpipe Band, is awarded to a member of the years at the post of sergeant at arms with honor, Jack Pintchik Medal Department who performs an outstanding act of dedication and devotion to his Brother Firefighters. ollowing successful resuscitation from cardiac heroism in keeping with the FDNY’s highest tradi- (Page 46) Farrest by EMS Paramedics, Jack Pintchik, tions. First awarded in 1981. Donations made by founder of the Pintchik Home Improvement Stores, Matthew and Susan Daly, Sandy and Terry Lieutenant James E. Zahn/ honored members of EMS by establishing the first Sansevero and retired FM Jim McSwigin. (Page 41) Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal formalized EMS Awards & Recognition ceremony. he Lieutenant James E. Zahn/Lieutenant Peter In his memory, the Pintchik family continues to Company Officers Association Medal TL. Troiano Memorial Medal has been estab- show their respect and support of EMS profession- ndowed by the Company Officers Association lished in honor of these two beloved “Brothers,” als through the Jack Pintchik Medal. (Page 53) Ein memory of Company Officers in the FDNY who laid down their lives for the people of the City who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Medal of New York. This medal is awarded to a member World Trade Center Memorial Medal awarded for the first time in 1982. It is donated in of the Department who has performed an act of stablished to honor the bravery and courage of memory of retired Captain Sy Berkowitz. Donation bravery in the protection of life and/or property, Ethe 343 FDNY members who made the made by Honorary Chief James Martin, in memory either while on- or off-duty. Endowed by the mem- Supreme Sacrifice on September 11, 2001, at the of Firefighter Francis Esposito and Captain Martin bers of Engine 277 and Ladder 112. (Page 47) World Trade Center. This Company of the Year Egan of Ladder Company 79. (Page 42) Award is endowed/funded by the 9/11 parents and fam- Lieutenant James Curran/ ilies. (Page 54) Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal New York Firefighters he Martin Medal is endowed in honor of the Burn Center Foundation Medal Tlegendary Assistant Chief Joseph B. “Smokey he New York Firefighters Burn Center Joe” Martin, who served the FDNY with “fidelity TFoundation is an organization committed to the and devotion” for 47 years. Awarded for the first goals of quality burn care and fund-raising endeav- time in 1984. Awards are made in the memory of ors. Similarly, the FDNY is engaged in safeguard- Firefighter Anthony D. Buccieri, Engine 75; in ing and improving the quality of life for City resi- memory of Firefighter Mike Donnelly of Ladder dents. It is this semblance of purpose and collabo- 33, who died in 1983 after an heroic battle with rative spirit that is deserving of recognition. With cancer; by the Martin family in memory of Frances this in mind, the New York Firefighters Burn B. Martin (1905-1996), daughter of “Smokey Joe” Center Foundation awards a medal to the most wor- Martin; in memory of Battalion Chief William C. thy of units in appreciation of “a concentrated, Rinsdale, 19th Battalion, who died in the line of super effort based on teamwork.” Endowed by the duty in 1971; and donation by Richard Kirrstetter, New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation and Ladder 33, and all his Brothers in Ladder 33, Dr. Marc Kramer, Honorary Assistant Chief and Engine 75, Battalion 19. (Page 43) Consultant to the Medical Division. (Page 48)

64 FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OF NEW YORK • MEDAL DAY 2011 photo by Honorary Deputy Chief Matthew P. Daly photo by Danny Iudici February 15,2010. Bronx Box 75-3405,785PelhamParkwayNorth, anypotentialevidence. isexaminedfor around theSUV MemorialMedal.Inthisphoto,thearea with the World Trade Center J. Leahy, BrianJ.LoveridgeandGeorge T. Young) were presented Kazan andFFs Timothy R.Cashion(E-54),Scott A. Hickey, William Company4(LieutenantJohn V. and ColinC.Ryan) andLadder Stephen J.Hughes(L-4),FedericoMartinez,NicholasM.Pettenato 54 (LieutenantMichaelB.BarvelsandFFsPaulJ.Fischetti(L-4), whichEngineCompany Times Square, May1,2010,theincidentfor of West 45thStreet/7th Avenue,(Right) ManhattanBox0814,corner Louis Valentino Award.Dodenhoff, Rescue2,wasawardedtheBrooklyn CitizensMedal/FF Medal andNew CharlesJ. York State HonoraryFire Chiefs 132,wasawardedtheJamesGordonBennett Association Medal,and FF G. Demontreux, Ladder Peter whichFF for (Above andright)Brooklyn Box22-0963,175Putnam Avenue, August 30,2010,theincident Members in Action Members Fire andEMS from this blaze.Inphotoabove,EMSpersonnel attendtotheinjured. ScottMedal.Numerous civilianswere assisted/rescued Montesino, Squad 18,received the Walter Antonio whichFF Manhattan Box77-0259, 283GrandStreet, April 11, 2010, theincidentfor

photo by Allen Epstein photo courtesy of www.newstimes.com/mediaManager photo by Allen Epstein FIRE DEPARTMENT, CITY OFNEWYORK MICHAELR. BLOOMBERG, Mayor SALVATOREJ. CASSANO, Fire Commissioner EDWARD S. KILDUFF, Chief of Department 9 MetroTech Center NewNew YYork’ork’ss BravestBravest Brooklyn, New York 11201 PROUDLY SERVING SINCE 1865 www.nyc.gov/fdny.nyc.gov/fdny